The Acceptability of Musculoskeletal Community Appointment Days: A Mixed-Methods Service Evaluation

Musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions represent an increasing challenge within the NHS. Rising demand has driven a national shift towards more community-based care and supported self-management. Community Appointment Days (CAD) are community-based, full-day events providing access to clinical expertise, community partners and voluntary sector services. The collaborative ethos facilitates a personalised and holistic approach to musculoskeletal health. This evaluation aimed to explore the acceptability of the CAD model.

Following a CAD in the Southwest of England, patient experience was collected using the Friends and Family test and CollaboRATE measure for level of shared decision-making. Interviews were conducted with patients, and a focus group was held with staff. The Theoretical Framework of Acceptability (TFA) informed the interview and focus group guides, and data analysis. Thematic analysis employed a hybrid deductive/inductive approach.

The CAD was attended by 130/160 (81%) patients. Experience measures were completed by 97/130 (75%) patients. The Friends and Family test demonstrated that most patients were 'extremely likely' (n = 63, 65%) or 'likely' (n = 32, 33%) to recommend a CAD. The average CollaboRATE score was 10.8/12. One-to-one interviews were completed with 13 patients, and a focus group with 10 staff. Four themes were identified: (1) a positive response to the CAD ethos; (2) the importance of effective planning and communication; (3) effective implementation of the CAD; and (4) potential impact and integration with existing musculoskeletal pathways.

The CAD was perceived as an acceptable, personalised, and holistic model of care that supports self-management and cross-sector collaboration for supporting MSK health.