An evaluation of a virtual musculoskeletal podiatry service implemented to address prolonged National Health Service waiting times

Brunilda Agalliu, Thanaporn Tunprasert, Tom Walton, Liam McManus

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract


Background
The COVID-19 pandemic had a substantial impact on healthcare systems globally, particularly in the public sector. To address the challenges posed by the pandemic, musculoskeletal (MSK) healthcare providers had to rapidly adopt virtual platforms for delivering care, representing a major shift in how healthcare was delivered.

Objective
This manuscript aims to retrospectively evaluate a virtual MSK podiatry service offered by a private provider under a National Health Service commission, in terms of patient access, waiting times and patient-reported pain. This service was developed and implemented in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and the extended waiting times.

Methods
A retrospective clinical service evaluation was conducted on MSK podiatry services delivered via telephone or virtual consultations. The evaluation covered a cohort of 574 referred patients over a 19-month period (July 2021 to January 2023). It analysed demographic data, initial and final visual analogue pain scores, pathology categories, orthoses prescriptions and exercise rehabilitation plans.

Results
Data from a total of 492 patients (male = 152 and female = 340) were analysed, with 82 patients excluded for non-attendance. The average waiting time from referral-to-first appointment and referral-to-discharge was 35 and 91 days, respectively. Results showed statistically significant improvement (p < 0.001) in the mean visual analogue scale when patients received orthoses with and without a rehabilitation plan (4.12 ± 2.55 and 3.33 ± 2.88, respectively). Most patients (61.5%) were aged 40–69, with “foot pain” being the main reported pathology category. Patients had an average of two appointments. 56.5% of patients remained virtual throughout their journey and were successfully discharged to self-management. 43.9% were discharged to other face-to face services.

Conclusions
The study provided evidence that the virtual MSK podiatry service achieved a statistically significant reduction in patient-reported pain for various pathologies with reasonable waiting times. The service delivered favourable outcomes and complemented traditional services at a time with limited access due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Original languageEnglish
Number of pages10
JournalJournal of Foot and Ankle Research
Volume17
Issue number4
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 18 Oct 2024

Keywords

  • musculoskeletal
  • podiatry
  • virtual

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