Changes to GP MRI referrals for joint and muscle problems (MSK)

Patients may notice a change in how GPs arrange MRI scans for muscle, bone and joint (musculoskeletal or MSK) conditions.

Following a new pathway introduced by NHS North East London Integrated Care Board (ICB), GPs are no longer able to refer patients directly for routine MRI scans for MSK conditions such as joint pain, shoulder pain, knee pain, hip pain, back pain and similar problems.

What has changed?

If your GP feels you may need an MRI for an MSK condition, we must now refer you to the local Musculoskeletal (MSK) Service first.

A specialist clinician in the MSK team will assess your condition and, if an MRI is clinically appropriate, they will arrange the scan as part of your care.

This is a change introduced across North East London and applies to all GP practices in the area.

What does this mean for patients?

• Your GP can no longer request a routine MRI directly for MSK problems.
• You will first be referred to the specialist MSK service.
• The MSK clinician will decide whether an MRI is needed after assessing your symptoms.
• This may add an extra step before an MRI is arranged.

How long will I wait?

The hospital has advised GP practices that patients should expect to be seen by the MSK team within approximately 6 weeks.

If your wait exceeds this timeframe, you can raise a formal complaint with NHS North East London Integrated Care Board (ICB) using their complaints form.

Does this affect urgent problems?

No.

If your GP is concerned about a serious or urgent condition, existing urgent referral pathways remain unchanged and will continue to be used where appropriate.

Thank you for your understanding

We appreciate that this change may be frustrating, particularly if you have previously been referred directly for an MRI. Unfortunately, this is an NHS-wide commissioning change that GP practices are required to follow.

If you have any questions about your referral, please contact the practice.