The figures come ahead of the Government’s forthcoming NHS 10 Year Workforce Plan, due to be published this spring. Clinicians from across the private and independent healthcare sector say the data highlights the growing workforce and capacity shortages facing NHS services and the need to make greater use of qualified professionals outside the public sector.
The British Chiropractic Association (BCA) says the data exposes stark regional inequalities, with the South East facing the longest NHS community waiting times for MSK conditions such as neck and back pain. The data shows there are currently almost 30,000 patients in the South East waiting over 12 weeks to be seen. Many patients are living with chronic pain, reduced mobility and an inability to work, placing growing strain on families, employers and the local economy.
Tim Button, President of the British Chiropractic Association, said:
MSK waiting lists are at a crisis point, and patients in the South East cannot afford further delay. Where you live should not dictate the treatment options available to you or restrict your ability to return to work.
The BCA has hundreds of chiropractors based in the South East who are highly trained, regulated healthcare professionals ready to support the NHS by helping to reduce waiting times immediately. We are calling on the Government to recognise the role chiropractors can play in tackling MSK backlogs and to take bold action to prevent regional health inequalities from becoming further embedded in our communities.
Clinicians warn that delays risk worsening conditions that could be treated earlier in community settings, increasing pressure on GP surgeries and hospitals. They are urging NHS England and ministers to expand the deployment of trained MSK professionals across both primary and secondary care pathways by leaning on spare capacity in the private sector.
The British Chiropractic Association are calling for chiropractors to be formally included in a National MSK strategy and given Allied Healthcare Professional Status, citing analysis showing the profession could help ease NHS pressure and unlock up to £400 million for the UK economy by supporting people back to work quicker.