New research has brought forth an innovative approach involving physiotherapy for orthopaedic patients, significantly trimming the surgery waitlist by a staggering 75 per cent. This pilot program, initially set in the Bay of Plenty, has now culminated in plans for nationwide implementation by Te Whatu Ora.
Pat Duckmanton, once hampered by arthritis, is experiencing newfound mobility after completing an 8-week physiotherapy regimen. “I was barely able to cover a short distance without excruciating knee pain,” Duckmanton recounted. Now, thanks to the program’s emphasis on bolstering her strength and flexibility, her activities include gardening, kneeling, and other tasks she had to forgo previously. Reflecting on the progress, she expressed a wish to start the program sooner.
This initiative specifically caters to patients with musculoskeletal conditions, striving to curtail the necessity for surgeries. Over the past three years, approximately 5500 patients have been involved. Remarkably, only a quarter of these patients sought surgical consultation, while the remaining 75 per cent found relief without resorting to surgery, according to physiotherapist Catherine Willis.
Te Whatu Ora, led by Andrew Connolly, chair of the planned care task force, is optimistic about expanding this program nationwide. The primary goal remains to identify individuals who can benefit from physiotherapy to alleviate pain and symptoms. As a result, fewer patients have required specialist consultations and surgical referrals. Emphasizing the initiative’s intent, Connolly clarified that their aim isn’t dissuading individuals from surgery if it’s essential. Approximately 20 per cent of New Zealanders on surgical waitlists are orthopaedic patients, with about 10 per cent waiting for more than a year. The focus is to ensure timely surgeries for those in need while providing necessary care and rehabilitation for those who can benefit from alternate treatments, shared by physiotherapist Eilish Simpson.
