Patients with pain in their muscles or bones will soon get the specialized care and treatment they need faster, thanks to new government funding.
Following a successful pilot program, the Province of Ontario announced it will be investing more than $37-million over the next three years to expand Rapid Access Clinics so patients with musculoskeletal conditions can access the right care faster.
To support the expansion of regional clinics, the Erie St. Clair LHIN (ESC LHIN) has been given $1.39-million in annualized base operational funding.
The news release states that the new clinics will help people with pain in their muscles or bones get the treatment and specialized care they need by reducing unnecessary medical procedures, including imaging and surgery. Wait times will also be improved once patients are better able to access the right education and treatment options faster. These options could include referrals for non-surgical alternatives like physiotherapy or chiropractic treatment.
Patients will be referred by family physicians to Rapid Access Clinics, where they will be seen within four weeks and given an assessment.
According to the ESC LHIN, one in three adults are affected by musculoskeletal disorders, which impact the bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, and connective tissues. Minster of Health and Long-Term Care Dr. Eric Hoskins says these disorders make performing everyday tasks difficult.
“Musculoskeletal pain can be debilitating and interfere with a person’s quality of life. That’s why Ontario is investing in a central intake system to ensure those who suffer from pain in their hips, knees and lower back can access assessments and treatment options faster and closer to home,” says Hoskins.
While the organization has not determined what exact areas the funding will go, ESC LHIN CEO Ralph Ganter thinks the money will be well spent.
"The Erie St. Clair investment into Musculoskeletal care means that we can help more people in our communities access the right treatments, in a timely manner, closer to home,” says Ganter.