SHBC1679
P.V.CHANDORKAR1, J.A.JAILANI1, Z.P.ZHANG1
National University Polyclinics1
Background:
Early Physiotherapy intervention has been effective in treating musculo-skeletal pain effectively (Pothiawala et al 2017). Thus, National University polyclinics initiated an early physiotherapy intervention for common musculo-skeletal conditions.
Hypothesis:
Early physiotherapy intervention will improve satisfaction levels in patients with common musculo-skeletal conditions.
Participants:
200 people attending Choa Chu Kang polyclinic.
Methodology:
Patients attended the “Physio-First” satellite clinic on the same day or within 10 days of polyclinic doctor referral. The role of the physiotherapist was to assess, perform a manual therapy intervention, prescribe exercises and advice on lifestyle modifications. A modified patient satisfaction survey was used to evaluate satisfaction levels post consult. The questionnaire had questions related to the early physiotherapy intervention, facilities and recommendations. Grading offered was from 1 (strongly disagree) to 5 (strongly agree). A non-randomized and sample of convenience was used to evaluate the satisfaction levels.
Early physiotherapy intervention led to high satisfaction scores and patients’ intention to manage the condition by themselves by doing exercises and adapting to lifestyle modifications.
Majority of the responses agreed or strongly agreed to the new service offered.
Discussion:
“Physio-First” satellite clinic has a potential to be a one stop service.The reduction in wait time is likely to reduce patient’s anxiety. The service allows polyclinic doctors and physiotherapists to re-enforce each other’s advice.
Conclusion:
“Physio-First” satellite clinic has the potential to benefit patients at an early stage thus preventing chronic long-term issues. Triaging the patients at polyclinic will result in significant reduction of orthopaedic specialists’ referrals.
