MSK Community Appointment Day

Working together for better MSK health

This Community Appointment Day is delivered by Essex Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (EPUT) in partnership with The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust (PAH). Together we are committed to providing person-centred care that helps people live well with musculoskeletal conditions and achieve the outcomes that matter most to them.

A different kind of MSK appointment

You have been invited to attend a Musculoskeletal (MSK) Community Appointment Day (CAD).

This is not a traditional clinic appointment. Instead, it is an opportunity to meet with MSK clinicians and a range of health, wellbeing and community services in one place.

Community Appointment Days are designed to provide access to a wide range of support during a single visit. Rather than attending a standard outpatient appointment, you will have the opportunity to discuss your symptoms, explore treatment and self-management options, and connect with services that can support your overall health and wellbeing.

The aim is to help you better understand your condition, identify what is important to you, and access the support that may help you improve your health, wellbeing and quality of life.

Learn more about community appointment days

If you would like to learn more about Community Appointment Days before attending, you can watch this short video explaining how the approach helps people access support, build confidence and focus on what matters most to them.

During your visit you will have the opportunity to:

• Speak with an MSK clinician about your symptoms and concerns
• Receive advice and education about your condition
• Explore self-management strategies
• Learn about exercise and rehabilitation opportunities
• Access information about local health and wellbeing services
• Connect with community organisations and support networks
• Develop a personalised plan to help you achieve your goals

Community Appointment Days focus on supporting the whole person, not just the condition. They are designed to help you develop the knowledge, confidence and support needed to manage your musculoskeletal health effectively.

What matters to you?

At the heart of our Community Appointment Day is a simple question:

“What matters to you?”

Rather than focusing solely on your condition, we want to understand how your symptoms affect your life and what is most important to you.

You may wish to:

• Return to a hobby or activity you enjoy
• Become more active
• Improve your mobility
• Manage your symptoms more effectively
• Build confidence in moving and exercising
• Improve your overall wellbeing
• Stay independent
• Return to work or daily activities

Our clinicians and partner organisations will work with you to explore what matters most and identify practical ways to help you achieve your goals.

What can I expect on the day?

When you arrive, you will be welcomed by members of the MSK team who will explain how the event works.

During your visit you will:

Meet with MSK clinicians

Discuss:

• Your symptoms
• How your condition affects your daily life
• Your goals and priorities
• Treatment and management options

Access advice and support

You may be able to speak with organisations offering support relating to:

• Physical activity and exercise
• Healthy lifestyle choices
• Weight management
• Community wellbeing services
• Local support groups
• Voluntary and community sector organisations

Create a personal plan

Together we will help you identify realistic next steps and support options that align with your goals.

How long will it take?

Unlike a traditional clinic appointment, there is no fixed appointment length.

Most people spend between 60 and 120 minutes at the event, depending on the support and information they wish to access.

You are encouraged to take the time you need to make the most of the services available.

How should I prepare?

Before attending, it may be helpful to think about:

• What matters most to you?
• What activities are currently difficult?
• What would you like to be able to do more easily?
• What goals would you like to achieve?

You may wish to write down any questions you would like to ask.

Please wear loose, comfortable clothing and appropriate footwear, as this may make it easier for clinicians to assess or inspect any joints that are causing you problems.

Please also bring:

• Any walking aids you normally use
• Glasses or hearing aids if required
• A list of current medications if relevant

Bringing someone with you

You are welcome to bring a family member, friend or carer if they support you with your healthcare needs.

We understand that some people may benefit from having someone with them to provide practical assistance, support with communication, or help them remember information discussed during the event.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will I still see an MSK clinician?

Yes. MSK clinicians will be available throughout the event.

Will I receive treatment on the day?

Many patients receive advice, education, exercise guidance and a management plan during their visit. If further assessment or treatment is required, this will be discussed with you.

What happens after my appointment?

Any agreed next steps will be discussed with you before you leave. This may include self-management advice, referral to another service, rehabilitation support or further clinical assessment.

Do I need to attend for the whole event?

No. You are free to leave once you have completed the parts of the event that are relevant to you.