Physiotherapist-led care for musculoskeletal conditions in the emergency department (RESHAP-ED): a randomised controlled trial with economic evaluation

Study Summary

1491 patients presenting to the emergency department with uncomplicated musculoskeletal conditions were randomized to receive physiotherapist-led care or usual physician-led or nurse practitioner-led care. The primary outcome of interest was emergency department length of stay. Secondary outcomes included time to initial clinical assessment, duration of clinical care, timely discharge, patient satisfaction, pain intensity, quality of life, adverse events, and health-care costs. Outcomes were assessed during the emergency department visit and up to 42 days after discharge. Overall, the results of the study revealed that physiotherapist-led care significantly reduced emergency department length of stay by 1 hour, improved timeliness of care and patient satisfaction, and reduced costs compared with usual care. There were no significant differences in pain, quality of life, or adverse events. These findings suggested that physiotherapist-led care was an efficient, safe, and cost-effective alternative for managing uncomplicated musculoskeletal presentations in emergency departments.