Cheshire physiotherapy team help more than 3,000 patients continue with rehabilitation through remote consultations

The Clinical Specialist Physiotherapy team at Central Cheshire Integrated Care Partnership (CCICP) has been using video calling software, as well as telephone and online courses, to continue to see and treat patients.

This remote service has enabled over 3,000 patients across Cheshire to continue with essential rehabilitation during lockdown.

Combining over 6,000 telephone consultations, more than 500 video consultations and online classes, the team has helped patients with different musculoskeletal (MSK) complaints, such as shoulder or back pain.

Using virtual consultations, physiotherapists have been able to safely assess, diagnose and treat patients, demonstrate and practice exercises to build a tailored programme, and provide instant advice that will improve a condition.

Alexandra Mayor, Physiotherapy Team Manager for CCICP, said: “During the pandemic, where access to primary health care settings has been limited, virtual consultations have allowed patients to continue to receive care for their musculoskeletal problems.

“The team has put a huge amount of effort into adapting the service, which has allowed us to continue running and supporting patients even at the most difficult times during lockdown.”

The team has also used the online sessions to show patients or self-massage techniques and to run exercise classes.

Patients can also now self-refer into the service, without needing to contact their GP.

Kieran Gallagher, Winsford Care Community Service Manager, added: “It’s been amazing to see how hard the team has worked in getting virtual consultations off the ground.

“Everyone in the MSK service has adapted to the current situation, and this has ensured our patients needs have been met during these extremely challenging times. Well done and many thanks to them all.”

Central Cheshire Integrated Care Partnership (CCICP) is a collaboration between Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (MCHFT), Cheshire and Wirral Partnership NHS Foundation Trust (CWP), and the South Cheshire and Vale Royal GP Alliance.

CCICP provides physical community mental health services for people in Central Cheshire, which includes community nursing, physiotherapy, speech and language therapy, tissue viability and podiatry services.