Sector feedback from design of secondary care services survey
As part of our efforts to develop an improved service delivery model for secondary care services, in February we sent out our first survey to suppliers to seek feedback on proposed changes to the way services are delivered. The survey focussed on the new Musculoskeletal Secondary Care Pathway, which will replace the current Clinical Services contract for kiritaki (clients) with musculoskeletal injuries.
The survey was sent to Clinical Services, Elective Surgery Service, High Tech Imaging and ICPMSK suppliers.
Suppliers provided valuable feedback that is being considered as we continue with the detailed design.
What we heard from suppliers:
- There is broad agreement that change is needed to how people with musculoskeletal injuries access secondary care.
- Many agree that a significant number of kiritaki are being referred into secondary care unnecessarily, contributing to longer wait times, increased imaging and surgery volumes, and poorer outcomes for those with genuine secondary care needs.
- Some are concerned that tightening referral acceptance criteria without careful design could create unintended delays, increase time spent on weekly compensation, or restrict access for kiritaki whose diagnosis is not yet clear at the point of referral.
- There is cautious support for a structured triage function, provided it is appropriately clinically governed, proportionate, and adds value through better decision-making and pathway direction.
- Many feel that prioritisation must balance clinical urgency, diagnostic uncertainty and work impact.
The survey is one of several ways we’re involving the sector in the detailed design process. We’re also meeting one-on-one with suppliers to discuss their opinions further and are continuing to engage with professional bodies and the Musculoskeletal Secondary Care Clinical Advisory Group.
A second survey was sent to suppliers in March. We’ll continue to share what we’re learning through the Provider Update.
This work is the next step in our efforts to strengthen how we commission secondary care services to support better recovery outcomes for injured people and a sustainable Accident Compensation Scheme. It’s an important part of our Turnaround Plan.