The responsibility to request scans for MSK (Musculoskeletal) conditions has shifted from GPs to Orthopaedic teams or Clinical Specialist Physiotherapists. Following this change, there has been a notable increase in GP referrals and patient requests specifically for scans rather than assessments or assistance with conditions or pain symptoms. Since the MSK team only scan for specific conditions, they are dedicating significant time to clarify to patients when scans are necessary.

Studies indicate that the increased availability of MRI scans in healthcare has resulted in over-scanning for conditions that may not require one. This rise in demand is straining MRI departments and hindering essential care, as scans can sometimes postpone treatment and frequently identify normal variations.

The Aneurin Bevan University Health Board are looking to form a patient experience group to engage in discussions with staff and patients, as well as create appropriate and informative information leaflets to help patients understand the reasons behind the need for MRIs.

They hope to get a better understanding of why people want to have a scan, what they think it might show and how they think it would change their management of pain or a condition and develop and present a draft leaflet / infographic and get feedback on the presentation, language used and the content. 

For more information or to register your interest in taking part, please contact: [email protected]