NHS Borders has partnered with EQL to roll out Phio, a digital solution enabling patients to quickly access musculoskeletal care, improving the health and quality of life of people in the region.
The technology partnership was launched to help accelerate access to musculoskeletal (MSK) care in the Borders region, as well as reduce demand for GPs and primary care services. It is hoped that the digital solution will improve the quality of life of patients suffering from back, neck, joint and muscle pain.
Phio has already been successfully rolled out to patients in the Highland Health and Social Care Partnership region, resulting in a significant reduction in waiting lists for MS care. The new partnership marks the first time NHS Borders patients have been offered a self-referral service for MSK issues.
Anyone aged over 16 and registered with one of the 23 GP practices in the Scottish Borders can use Phio to benefit from a rapid assessment and to be directed towards the most appropriate support or treatment.
Sarah Horan, Director of Nursing, Midwifery and AHP at NHS Borders, said: “If you have MS problems, Phio is a great way to guide you to the right care in the right place and help you manage the conditions by timely. sustained way that suits you.
“Using Phio is entirely up to the patient's choice, but it offers fantastic benefits on top of our current physiotherapy service. »
Patients can log into the Phio digital platform and, under the supervision of EQL clinicians and physiotherapists, receive a comprehensive digital assessment. This will also be directed towards the most appropriate form of care to support their recovery. Any 'alarm' symptoms will result in a recommendation to access emergency help, while appointments with a GP or physiotherapist will be recommended as needed.
The platform can also help support recovery and successful injury self-management through personalized information and tools. This includes exercise programs, stretching and remote monitoring by a physiotherapist or clinician.
Michael Guard, clinical lead at EQL, said: “By empowering patients to take control of their health journey, Phio aims to streamline the journey to MSK care while providing rapid support. The decision to use Phio is entirely up to the patient. This is simply an additional avenue for those seeking care.
“Patients choosing to use Phio will provide information about their condition. The clinical data collected during the online consultation is reviewed by qualified physiotherapists, ensuring that patients receive the appropriate care, treatment and advice when needed to prevent their condition from worsening.
In January last year, Cognitant and Versus Arthritis have partnered improve access to information, advice and tools for patients with musculoskeletal disorders.