Cognitant and Versus Arthritis boost digital access to MSK resources

Cognitant and Versus Arthritis have teamed up to improve access to information, advice and tools for patients with musculoskeletal conditions.

Cognitant’s patient platform Healthinote will now host a comprehensive selection of Versus Arthritis’ resources, including health information, exercise videos and support services.

The platform is already integrated with more than 3,000 GP practices, enabling clinicians to seamlessly prescribe the digital contents to their patients.

Dr Alice Wood, GP and clinical director at Cognitant, said: “With digital prescriptions, GPs can be assured they are offering patients the fullest range of effective interventions to choose from.”

These digital health information prescriptions can help to relieve the pressure on GPs while also increasing the value of each clinical interaction.

In addition, as Healthinote is integrated with eConsult, a digital triage and booking system, patients can access the resources in advance of their first appointment. Cognitant believes this will help improve the quality of consultations as well as personalise care plans.

Wood continued: “Referrals for surgery for arthritic conditions are some of the highest in the country, and make up the largest proportion of two-year waiters.

“Having tools to help patients manage their condition during this wait time is essential, so their condition doesn’t deteriorate. We’re delighted to be working with Versus Arthritis to bring these tools to patients, to help them understand their MSK conditions, and feel confident to take an active role in their recovery.”

The content is based on the latest evidence and is available in multiple formats and languages to ensure it is accessible to a wide cohort of patients.

Zoe Chivers, director of services and influencing at Versus Arthritis, said: “Offering a wider range of treatment options for people living with arthritis will help reduce the pressures on the NHS in the long run.

“We’re excited that, through this partnership with Cognitant, we can increase access to Versus Arthritis’ services and make a big difference to people’s lives, especially those waiting for surgery.”

Back in October, the menopause app balance also teamed up with Cognitant’s health information prescription service Healthinote to allow evidence-based information on the menopause be prescribed by GPs.