The Musculoskeletal Service (MIS) is a "one-stop-shop" for patients with musculoskeletal (MSK) problems.
The Primary Aims of the Service are:
To review and signpost all GP referrals entering the service:
- To provide a range of clinical assessments and therapeutic interventions including therapy, joint/peri articular injections and patient education
- To have the capability for rapid access to imaging diagnostics where deemed appropriate (e.g. x-ray, MRI, ultrasound, nerve conduction, etc.)
The service is jointly managed between a lead clinician (Consultant Rheumatologist), Consultant Physiotherapist and an Operational Service Manager. The service is delivered by our Advanced Musculoskeletal (MSK) Practitioners. These may be Consultant Rheumatologists, Extended Scope Practitioners (ESPs), Rehabilitation Doctors, Consultant Physiotherapists, or GPs with a special interest (GPSIs).
Clinics are held in a variety of locations across North Staffordshire including Haywood Hospital, Longton Cottage Hospital, Milehouse Primary Care Centre and Hartshill Orthopaedic Surgery Unit (City General). The appointment will last up to 30 minutes and the patient could be seen by any of our musculoskeletal practitioners. They will ask about the problem, do an examination and suggest treatment.
A broad range of investigations/diagnostics are requested where necessary and include x-ray, MRI, blood tests, EMG/nerve tests and ultrasounds.
At the appointment the patient may be offered and given treatment such as medication, an injection or self-management advice. The patient may also be referred to another service for treatment, such as physiotherapy.
If it is necessary for the patient to have an operation this will be discussed with them. The PCT Choice and Referral Centre will then contact to offer choice.
A strong governance process is in place to ensure clinicians are appropriately trained and supported to undertake this clinical activity. All practitioners are supported by senior clinicians.
Regular patient feedback is also sought via our patient feedback questionnaire. The average patient satisfaction score for the service between September 2010 and March 2011 was 94%.
How to Refer
All referrals should come from the GP via Choose & Book and the process is set out below:
- Choose speciality = Orthopaedics
- Choose clinic type - i.e. foot & ankle, hip, knee, etc.
- Click Search Primary Care
The MIS Service will show on C&B as follows:
Adult Musculoskeletal Interface Service (Stoke PCT - 5PJ) Inc Smashers & Stabs Services - Haywood Hospital.
How to Contact the Service
For general queries, please contact Libby Amison, Service Co-ordinator on 01782 673703.