Fast-track physio may aid crews

Fast-track physiotherapy services may be provided to help injured Shropshire firefighters return to duty more quickly, reveals a new report.

And the proposal, if accepted by the Shropshire and Wrekin Fire Authority, could save thousands of pounds.

The report says that if just one firefighter is absent with a musculoskeletal condition as a result of an injury, the "worst case" potential costs can be one-year full sick pay of £27,185.

There are also possible ill-health retirement or injury awards, or the possibility of a personal injury claim.

The 'best case" scenario is a return to work after a 12-week wait for physiotherapy with a cost to the service of £6,273.

But to refer one firefighter immediately for physiotherapy, for a maximum of six sessions, will result in £195 costs, says the report to the authority's human resources committee.

The report adds: "In this scenario, a person could have either completed, or be well on the way to completing treatment before they have been absent for 12 weeks, potentially producing a non-cashable saving up to £6,273."

If, of the 58 appointments dealt with by Occupational Health last year, 20 people needed physiotherapy treatment that was not immediately available with their own doctor, the maximum cost of the sessions would be £3,900.

"This figure is equivalent to sick pay for one firefighter for eight weeks," says the report.

"If each of the 20 people referred, returned to work just three weeks earlier than they otherwise would, this may deliver a non-cashable benefit of £31,367 in one year."

The fast-track service would be provided by the Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Hospital, Oswestry and would cover all fire service staff.

In addition to reducing absence levels and costs, it would also enhance staff morale and act as a recruitment incentive for the service.

The committee will decide next Thursday whether or not to recommended the fast-track physiotherapy service to the authority.

By Dave Morris