Creating a Common Language in Musculoskeletal Care

In the complex world of musculoskeletal (MSK) care, clear communication and collaboration among healthcare professionals can be challenging, particularly within the realm of complex cases in workers' compensation. Fragmented care and varied approaches across the care continuum often result in prolonged recovery times and increased costs. However, advancements in technology are enabling a transformative shift in MSK care, paving the way for a common language that fosters shared decision-making, improved patient outcomes, and a streamlined return-to-work process.

At the recent NWCD conference in Las Vegas, a panel on "Creating a Common Language in Musculoskeletal Care" was shared where leaders in physical therapy, orthopedic surgery, and workers' compensation came together to discuss this shift.

The panel included Rob Pace, COO of the Physical Rehabilitation Network, Dr. Benedict Nwachukwu, orthopedic surgeon and CEO of Best in Class MD, and Lisa Fitzpatrick, CEO of XcelABLE and an occupational therapist. This group of experts explored how integrating digital tools and data-driven approaches can create a unified approach in MSK care that benefits patients, healthcare providers, and payers alike.

Panelists discuss using technology to improve communication and patient care at the National Workers' Compensation and Disability Conference (from left to right Josh Williams with FIGUR8, Dr. Benedict Nwachukwu with Best In Class MD, Dr. Lisa Fitzpatrick with XcelABLE and Rob Pace with PRN.

Breaking Down Silos in MSK Care

One of the key challenges in workers' compensation and MSK care is the fragmented nature of communication among care teams. Information collected from an injured individual is often subjective and relies heavily on a provider's expertise to understand. Without a shared framework or language to guide communication across care teams, patients are often faced with delays in receiving effective treatment, which can hinder recovery and further delay their return to work.

By establishing a common language using objective data to understand and monitor physical recovery, stakeholders across the MSK care spectrum—from physical therapists to orthopedic surgeons to case managers—can make more informed and cohesive decisions.

The Role of Technology in Breaking Down Silos

Advancements in in-clinic assessment technology are proving to be invaluable in standardizing MSK care. Tools like the bioMotion Assessment Platform by FIGUR8 enable physical therapists and other care MSK care providers to perform precise physical exams at any point of care.

With FIGUR8 tools enabled, providers now have best-in-class objective, data-driven insights that reduce clinical guesswork and enhance diagnostic accuracy which in turn raises the standard of care and lowers recovery time. Injured workers have been documented to recover over 50% faster with the support of bioMotion technology, as shown in the case study linked here with FIGUR8 enabled provider Team Rehab.

The integration of such technologies into clinical practice allows for a more streamlined and effective approach to MSK care, benefiting all parties involved in the workers' compensation process.

Precision as a Financial and Clinical Necessity

In MSK care, precision is essential not only for optimal patient outcomes but also for cost management. Accurate data and standardized assessments enable healthcare providers to identify the true drivers of MSK costs, allowing for targeted interventions that reduce expenses. This approach leads to faster recovery times, fewer repeat claims, and a more efficient return-to-work process for injured workers.

Real-World Impact: Faster Recovery and Improved Outcomes

The "digitally-enabled" physical therapist is emerging as a cornerstone of this new MSK care paradigm. By leveraging digital assessment tools, these professionals can offer a more precise and objective assessment, leading to personalized treatment plans and measurable improvements in recovery times.

The unified language across the care team ensures that everyone, from therapists to surgeons, is working towards a common goal—enhancing the patient experience and expediting recovery.

Shaping the Future of Musculoskeletal Health

The panel discussion "Creating a Common Language in Musculoskeletal Care" at the NWCD event provided a glimpse into the future of MSK care.

By adopting technology-driven approaches and fostering collaboration across the MSK care continuum, healthcare providers can ensure that injured workers receive the most effective and efficient care possible. This approach not only benefits patients but also has a significant impact on workers' compensation stakeholders, helping to drive down claims costs and promote healthier, more resilient workforces.

As we continue to break down silos and embrace technology, the vision of a unified, collaborative approach to MSK care is closer than ever. The future of musculoskeletal health lies in creating a common language that enables shared decision-making, precision in care, and ultimately, better health outcomes for all.

Questions about FIGUR8 and the future of MSK care? Reach out to the FIGUR8 team at info@figur8tech.com