In October 2024, Physio First’s Data for Impact (DfI) and Quality Assurance schemes will be relocating to the prestigious Centre for Musculoskeletal (MSK) Health Research at Keele University. This strategic move signifies a substantial advancement in the quality of care for musculoskeletal conditions, benefiting both clinicians and patients alike.
The integration of the DfI with the Keele University-led National MSK Audit and Research Database will provide a comprehensive platform for real-time data collection and analysis from approximately 700 private practices and NHS community services. This initiative aims to enhance the consistency and quality of primary care treatment for MSK conditions across the UK, leading to improved patient outcomes through better understanding of access, interventions, and costs.
Katie Knapton, Chair of Physio First, emphasised the significance of this transition: “For the first time, we will have standardised real-time information accessible to both private and NHS physiotherapy practices. This is a monumental step towards our mission of fostering a community of quality physiotherapists.”
The DfI project, which originated in 2009, has evolved significantly and will now benefit from enhanced resources at Keele University. Physiotherapists will have the opportunity to evaluate their interventions effectively and refine treatment plans based on national data insights. The project will also feature a new interactive dashboard for simplified data visualisation and reporting, ensuring that clinicians can act on insights promptly.
The collaboration will also foster ongoing research, with Keele University’s team continuing to publish papers and engage Masters-level physiotherapy students in research projects utilising DfI data.
Physio First is excited about the potential improvements that will arise from this partnership. For further details on the Data for Impact Project, please visit the Physio First website, and information on the National MSK Audit and Research Database is available from Keele University.