Musculoskeletal (MSK) practitioners in primary care: an evaluation of a MSK core capabilities framework and review process

ABSTRACT

The General Practice Contract 2019/20 established first contact musculoskeletal (MSK) physiotherapists in primary care. This paper describes an evaluation exploring the feasibility of using the MSK Core Capabilities Framework and a peer review process to evidence capability. It discusses how this process may be developed to ensure MSK practitioners are able to evidence the level of practice required within the complex environment of primary care. MSK practitioners were supported to evidence their capabilities against the MSK Framework. Twenty-two participants took part in the evaluation of this intervention via semi-structured interviews. A robust and iterative process of qualitative data analysis was undertaken. The findings are framed in terms of Davis’ Technology Acceptance Model of evaluation (i.e. user perceptions).

There were a range of perceived benefits of the Framework including as a means of quality assurance, career progression, the promotion of knowledge consolidation and reflective practice. There were however, a number of ‘translation into practice’ issues. Given the newness of the MSK Framework, it is perhaps not surprising there is a need for refinement. This evaluation highlights key enablers for reviewing capabilities of MSK practitioners: a curriculum; educational supervision; and accreditation. Learning also applies more widely to other emerging role opportunities.

KEYWORDS:

• Assessment
• primary care
• professional development
• evaluation
• practitioner support

Acknowledgments

The authors thank all research participants (i.e. MSK practitioners, fellows and panel members) that took part in the interviews. The authors also thank Professor John Sandars for his advice on an early draft of the paper.

Declaration of interest

Dr Richard Collier is Clinical Lead for MSK Practitioners in Primary Care and Beverley Harden is Allied Health Professional Lead for Health Education England.

Ethical approval

The study was granted ethical approval by the University of Winchester.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by Health Education England.