From Breaking Point to Recovery: Prioritising Musculoskeletal Healthcare in Northern Ireland

Arthritis UK Northern Ireland has published a landmark report, From Breaking Point to Recovery: Prioritising Musculoskeletal Healthcare in Northern Ireland, calling for immediate action to tackle the growing musculoskeletal (MSK) health crisis in Northern Ireland. Over half a million people in Northern Ireland are living with arthritis or another MSK condition, with devastating impacts on quality of life, employment, education and mental health.

This report reflects how MSK services are delivered and experienced today across Northern Ireland, and worryingly it shows we are not in good health. Northern Ireland is at a tipping point. Without urgent action, the burden of MSK conditions will continue to grow, impacting individuals, families, health services and the economy.

Calls to action

Our report sets out four urgent calls to action:

• Establish a strategic approach to MSK healthcare. Introduce MSK leadership within the Department of Health and create a coordinated policy framework.
• Improve care pathways and diagnosis. Enhance general practitioner (GP) training, streamline referrals, address transition to adult services for young people and integrate mental health support.
• Transform waiting times, patient support and communication. Tackle waiting lists, improve communication and support while waiting.
• Increase public awareness of MSK health and patient education. Launch public health campaigns and empower patients to manage their condition.

Our calls to action are achievable within five years and will transform lives. We are urging the Department of Health to act now, and work with us, clinicians, voluntary organisations and communities to deliver sustainable change.