11/03/2024
⁉️Have you got to see an NHS physio yet?
❓Have they helped you get to where you want to be physically?
Don’t get me wrong, in some areas and on some occasions, the NHS physio service can be really great. Particularly in-hospital services and respiratory services. However, the sad truth is that much of the NHS physiotherapy services for those struggling with injuries or pain has been contracted out and it is not at all as good as it should/could be. This is mostly because the NHS is too stretched, both financially and with their workload, to continue delivering these services themselves.
I say this as an osteopath who was employed briefly by an NHS contracted company to deliver online physiotherapy services to patients (second picture). Sadly, I was so appalled by the lack of diagnostic and treatment knowledge amongst my colleagues, and the total lack of patient-centred care offered, that I left the position. I felt miserable at the end of each 20 minute appointment, knowing that it wasn’t enough time to effectively help them, that there weren’t enough in-person appointments to be able to offer them if they needed one, and I felt even worse that I was being urged to discharge patients with a sheet of exercises after just that one 20 minute call. People need and deserve more!
Appointment times are short, if you do manage to get an in-person appointment there is rarely any hands-on treatment, generic exercises are given for whatever area you’re experiencing pain (even if the problem is coming from elsewhere) and, unfortunately, many patients are discharged unsatisfied and still suffering.
The truth is, if you’re still waiting for an NHS physio referral or appointment, seeking private healthcare is something you may need to consider for effectively resolving musculoskeletal issues.
I’m keen to know what you think…have you experienced a great NHS physio service for your pain or injury, which resolved the issue quickly and effectively?
