Optimising musculoskeletal patient flow through digital triage and supported self-management within a Primary Care Network
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions are a leading cause of disability and work absence in the UK. Access to National Health Service (NHS) primary care remains a persistent challenge, driven by increasing patient demand, workforce constraints and inefficiencies embedded within traditional service pathways. In response, the growing need for timely and effective MSK management has accelerated the adoption of innovative digital solutions designed to transform service delivery, reduce waiting times and improve patient outcomes.The overall project aim was to enhance patient safety in a large Primary Care Network (PCN) by providing 24/7 access to digital triage alongside expanding patient choice by offering digital self-management at the point of access.During the 12-month evaluation, 822 patients completed digital triage, of whom 282 were offered, accepted and accessed digitally supported self-management using the app. Uptake was broadly representative of the wider PCN population and patient satisfaction was rated as good or very good using the Friends and Family Test. No safety concerns were identified in the available audit data.These findings suggest that digital triage and supported self-management were feasible and acceptable within a diverse and deprived primary care population, providing an additional option for accessing MSK care. Further research is required to establish the clinical and economic impact of these digital approaches.
Source: BMJ Open Quality
Language: English
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $1,839
OpenAlex ID: W7225124101