ARMA has welcomed the inclusion of references to MSK in the NHS Long Term Plan. The real challenge is how to implement this in the local NHS plans. ARMA has set out the “core offer” of MSK services and support which need to be implemented locally if the ambition of the long term plan is to be realised.
The NHS plan states: “Longer-term health conditions also make an increasing contribution to the overall burden of disease. Mental health, respiratory and musculoskeletal conditions are responsible for a substantial amount of poor health and place a substantial burden on the NHS and other care services.” Our core offer identifies what is needed in five areas: underpinning framework; services; prevention; mental health; personalisation. It identifies how our recommendation would deliver on the NHS Plan and provides links to toolkits and guidance of how to implement each suggestion.
Please download the document and use it if you are involved in planning local services.