Source: New Zealand Ministry of Health
As one of the leading causes of disability in New Zealand, musculoskeletal conditions generate a significant health, social and economic strain on both individual quality of life and health system costs. Research indicates that one in every four adults are affected by musculoskeletal conditions, including arthritis, osteoporosis, lower back pain, and spinal disorders.
The Mobility Action Programme (MAP) is an early intervention programme for people with musculoskeletal conditions. Seventeen pilots have been located with all twenty district health boards (DHBs) of New Zealand to deliver evidence informed, community based and multidisciplinary care.
The Ministry commissioned Allen + Clarke to evaluate the effectiveness and impact of the MAP, and to provide an evidence base that identifies the models and approaches that achieve the programme’s intended outcomes.
This report is the first stage to be released and covers the period from January 2016 when services commenced through to May 2018. The final report will be available in early 2020 and will include further analysis on the longer term outcomes for participants.
The key findings in this report are based on analysis of data from 3,484 health consumers. Statistically significant improvements in health outcomes data show improvements in mobility, function and pain, and people’s ability to self-manage their conditions. While there were improvements in general physical and mental health, these were not statistically significant. Further impacts include reductions in visits to GPs and referrals to specialists.
Find out more about the Mobility Action Programme.
