[AVBC 2025] Transformative Shift in Musculoskeletal Care through a New Shared Care Model - Central & North SG
Care Continuum
Appropriate & Value-based Care Conference
National Healthcare Group
3 December 2025
To collectively identify gaps in the current MSK model of care and formulate transformative and sustainable solutions for. A cross-sector, ground-up engagement approach can successfully transform the model of care for MSK conditions from a siloed to an.
Year Submitted: 2025
Published Date: 03 December 2025
Tags: Care Continuum, Intermediate and Long Term Care ＆ Community Care, Right-Siting, Preventive Approach, Community Health, Rehabilitative Care
About this Content
Aims
To collectively identify gaps in the current MSK model of care and formulate transformative and sustainable solutions for Central-North Singapore.
Background
Musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions are the leading cause of physical disabilities in Singapore. MSK physiotherapy services have traditionally remained in tertiary settings. There is a need to right-site these services in the community to enable timely access to care.
Methods
The project team conducted extensive patient and clinician interviews, studied local frameworks, reviewed international models, and engaged in current and future state mapping to create new care pathways.
Results
The MUSKUP programme was conducted for 75 community PTs, leading to MSK services being offered at 31 sites in Central-North Singapore. About 934 referrals were decanted from primary care to DRCs, with over 60% of cases achieving clinical improvements.
Conclusion
A cross-sector, ground-up engagement approach can successfully transform the model of care for MSK conditions from a siloed to an integrated one, bringing value to residents, patients, and providers.
Lessons Learnt
Building strong relationships is essential for trust and collaboration. A bottom-up approach, focusing on cross-sector understanding and collective solutioning, ensures successful adoption.
Keywords
MSK, physiotherapy, community care, capability building, integrated care
Innovators' Details
Innovators' Details
Healthcare Cluster(s) | National Healthcare Group |
Organization(s) Involved | Tan Tock Seng Hospital, NHG Health, Woodlands Health, Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, National Healthcare Group Polyclinics, NTUC Health |
Platform(s) | Appropriate & Value-based Care Conference |
Healthcare Professional Group(s) | Allied Health |
Applicable Specialty or Discipline | Orthopaedics, Rehabilitation Therapy |
Project Lead(s) | GOH Ming Rong |
Project Member(s) | NGO Xueting |
Connect with this contributor!
GOH Ming Rong - ming.rong.goh@nhghealth.com.sg