BSR statement on launch of Musculoskeletal Services Framework (MSF)
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The MSF was officially launched by Health Minister Andy Burnham MP on 31 October. BSR has endorsed the MSF; although we have expressed concern that the development of Clinical Assessment and Treatment Services (CATS) must be well managed and that it does not lead to delay for patients, duplication of services or unnecessary expense. We were heartened to learn from the Minister that he is keen to encourage local development of CATS and that there are no plans for a “one CATS fits all” model.
It is therefore essential that BSR members start planning how their local area will develop such a service. There’s no need to wait to make rheumatology services work the way they should. We suggest you begin discussions with hospital colleagues as and colleagues in primary care at once. Please do feed back any useful ideas and plans to BSR so we can expand our database of models of care that work.
Copies are the framework are available from: http://www.18weeks.nhs.uk/public/default.aspx?main=true&load=ArticleViewer&ArticleId=612
Dr Andrew Bamji FRCP
President BSR
1 November 2006