7,500 people with musculoskeletal issues (MSK) in parts of the country with the longest waiting times were seen quicker following a new NHS pilot scheme.
The pilot, a £3.5 million investment from the Department for Work and Pensions, is part of the Government’s aim of tackling economic inactivity, with around 2.8 million out of work from long-term sickness, and more than half a million because of MSK.
The pilot trialled new digital tools to help manage conditions remotely, and new ‘one-day’ clinics, which combine, health, physical activity, and mental health support together, which has contributed to a 20% cut in waiting times across 17 areas, including North East London.
Minister for Employment Dame Diana Johnson MP said: “No one should feel locked out of work due to health issues. We invested in this support to help people get well and get working.
“The results are clear: musculoskeletal patients are getting the help they need and innovation supports them to get one step closer to work and gets people off waiting lists.
“Getting Britain working remains a key priority, and this support is one tangible way we are doing it.”
This pilot schemes comes alongside a wider support offer to help sick or disabled people, backed by £3.5 billion by the end of the decade.
Connect to Work aims to provide help for 300,000 people by 2030, while 1,000 ‘Pathways to Work’ advisers are stationed in Jobcentres across Britain.
On 26 March, the government announced 27 Neighbourhood Health Centres will be open by 2027, offering urgent treatment, GP, and pharmacy services.
Health Minister Stephen Kinnock said: “Offering multiple services under one roof, with tailored care for that specific person, is part of our mission to build a true Neighbourhood Health Service.
“With more care in the community, everyone wins. Patients get the best care, and the NHS gets people back to work, boosting economic growth.”
Featured image credit: Call me Fred via Unsplash
Join the discussion