Exploring access to musculoskeletal outpatient therapy services

Are We Providing Timely Access to Musculoskeletal Outpatient Therapy Services? an Exploratory Study

Cardiff and Vale University Health Board · NCT06829875

This study looks at how long people in Wales have to wait for musculoskeletal therapy and how those waiting times affect their health and well-being.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment135 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorCardiff and Vale University Health Board (other gov)
Locations1 site (Cardiff, Wales)
Trial IDNCT06829875 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study investigates the waiting times for musculoskeletal outpatient therapy services in Wales, focusing on the impact of these waits on patients' health outcomes. It aims to understand whether the current target of 14 weeks for timely access is appropriate, given the varying effects of waiting on individuals based on factors like age and mental health. By examining the lived experiences of patients waiting for care, the study seeks to provide insights into how waiting times affect their pain and function. The findings could inform future policies and practices regarding service access.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals aged 18 and over who are on a waiting list for outpatient podiatry, occupational therapy, or physiotherapy due to musculoskeletal complaints.

Not a fit: Patients who are considered vulnerable adults or have additional communication needs may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved access to musculoskeletal therapy services and better health outcomes for patients.

How similar studies have performed: While studies on waiting times in healthcare are common, this specific focus on musculoskeletal conditions and the impact of waiting is less explored, making it a novel approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* aged 18 years or over
* have entered a waiting list for outpatient podiatry, occupational therapy or physiotherapy with a musculoskeletal complaint
* able to provide informed consent
* be able to read and write english

Exclusion Criteria:

* are considered a vulnerable adult
* exhibit additional communication needs, to include but not limited to, language barrier

Where this trial is running

Cardiff, Wales

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Musculoskeletal, access, waiting times, impact of wait, musculoskeletal pain, msk pain, musculoskeletal conditions, physiotherapy outpatients

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.