Physiotherapy waiting times will be cut thanks to a new service introduced by Solihull NHS Care Trust.

The musculoskeletal service provided by Super Physios will enable patients to gain access to physiotherapy from highly skilled specialists.The faster service will allow patients to see a doctor and have their condition assessed within two weeks.

Some patients could still be sent to an orthopaedic surgeon but others may have a follow-up appointment or be treated and discharged.

Commissioning manager Scott Maddock said: "We were finding that hospital orthopaedic surgeons were seeing patients who did not need surgery. It meant a wait for an outpatient appointment and then a further wait to see a physiotherapist.

"With the new service people can see a Super Physio from our Community Services directorate and they can make a decision on further care. They can be seen, assessed and treated more quickly and at a location more convenient to them."

A phased introduction of the new service launches with clinics being delivered from Bosworth, Kingshurst and Chester Road practices. All GP practices in the north of the borough will be able to refer into this service from July 18.

The service will be extended to all GPs in the borough by the end of September, as new members of staff join the team. Patients will be able to choose which clinic they go to for their appointment.

Copyright ⌐ Press Association 2010