Brits put off seeing GP

NEW DATA from The British Chiropractic Association (BCA) shows the impact NHS waiting lists are having on patients with Musculoskeletal issues (MSK).

MSK conditions impact joints, bones and muscles and sometimes associated tissue such as nerves.

According to the NHS, over 20 million people in the UK have an MSK condition, such as arthritis or back pain, and they account for up to 30% of GP consultations in England.

New findings from the BCA have revealed that 56% of British people feel put off seeing their GP because of NHS waiting list times.

As a consequence, 48% of British people are using over-the-counter (OTC) medication to treat their MSK issues. Whilst OTC medication has its place in helping patients to resume physical activity, these medications are best used in the short term. Along with side effects, they do little to address potential functional issues which have led to the MSK condition.

The research also found that:

A third of British people (33%) haven't seen a GP to treat their MSK issue as they struggled to get an appointment

Nearly half of British people (43%) have avoided seeing their GP when dealing with an MSK health issue

Over half (53%) of British people are considering turning to private healthcare for MSK to help manage pain

38% of British people thought their MSK issue would go away on its own, without seeing a GP

Over half (52%) of British people have lived with an MSK issue for longer than 12 months

Chiropractors can provide those suffering with MSK conditions an alternative solution, giving patients choice when faced with long waiting lists. They offer patients a wide-ranging package of care which is patient-centred, supported by evidence and results in great patient- reported outcomes. More people are turning to chiropractors to manage poor mobility, pain and wider health concerns arising from MSK issues before they worsen.

Speaking about the recent research findings, Chiropractor, Thomas Jeppesen from Health on Hand on Loughborough Road, Leicester said: “Our role is supporting patients on their road to recovery, not only with treatment but also advising on lifestyle and self-care is the ethos of our clinics”

“Chiropractors are well established in their local communities as part of the regulated healthcare team, and it is encouraging to see an increasing number of GPs and FCPs suggesting that patients seek care privately for these common MSK complaints. There is more that can be done though to raise further awareness and confidence in the option for patients to see a chiropractor or other healthcare provider privately.

“NHS England has found over 30 million working days are lost due to MSK conditions every year in the UK. Integrated healthcare is essential to ensure more people receive treatment, and both the economy and NHS are better supported.”

For further information please contact Health on Hand on 0116 2101619

Or visit www.healthonhand.co.uk