Integrative care pathway for patients with MUS

• Research type

  Research Study

• Full title

  Innovative and integrative care pathway for patients with MUS (Medically Unexplained Symptoms) conditions in primary care mental health liaison services

• IRAS ID

  155094

• Contact name

  Frank Rohricht

• Contact email

  frank.rohricht@eastlondon.nhs.uk

• Sponsor organisation

  Regulatory Compliance Manager; Research & Development

• Research summary

  Patients with MUS often have unmet health needs as a result of incorrect diagnosis and consequently ineffective treatment despite frequent presentation at primary and secondary care services.

  The complex presentations, physical symptoms and distress require a care pathway and package that is both flexible and complex to meet the needs of these patients. Existing models have not met the complex needs necessary to achieve health outcomes among this group, largely due to GP and patient low take up and acceptance.

  This project will establish a care pathway that provides a holistic Primary Care service which will offer Identification, Assessment, Engagement and Treatment to patients with Medically Unexplained Symptoms. The expected outcomes include a reduction in unnecessary patient attendance to primary and secondary care, improved health and increased patient satisfaction.

  Aim of project:
  To define and develop an integrative and innovative care pathway for MUS patients that addresses their biopsychosocial health needs

  Objectives of project:
  Increase MUS patient satisfaction through adequate treatment, signposting and care
  Make the patients feel understood
  Improve engagement processes between clinical professionals and MUS patients
  Deliver an integrated care package incorporating best practice points from primary and secondary care
  Reduce the intensity and frequency of somatic complaints and improve functioning in patients with MUS conditions
  Reduce frequency of unplanned attendance in primary care
  Reduce frequency of unplanned attendance in secondary care.

  Through the delivery of a holistic care pathway, this project will support MUS patients to take a more active role in their own health care and to have better health outcomes.

• REC name

  Yorkshire & The Humber - Bradford Leeds Research Ethics Committee

• REC reference

  14/YH/1038

• Date of REC Opinion

  14 Jul 2014

• REC opinion

  Further Information Favourable Opinion