For the first time, patients referred to Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy Services in Northern Ireland can book their own appointments using the My Care app.

The new self-scheduling feature is available to those triaged as urgent. Once notified through the Regional My Care patient portal, individuals can view open appointment slots and select a time that suits them.

The South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust reports that the time between referral and the chance to book an appointment has already dropped from an average of six days to just one.

Eilis McGarvey, Physiotherapy Musculoskeletal Lead for the Trust, said patients can now self-refer and, when appropriate, book directly through the app. The service has also seen a reduction in lost capacity, as previously unused slots are now released for self-scheduling more promptly.

Patient Jill Jordan used the system after sustaining a shoulder injury and visiting the Ulster Hospital Minor Injuries Unit. Within four days, she received a notification to book. She described the process as straightforward, with three appointment options and the ability to add the booking to her calendar. Reminder alerts were sent three times before the appointment.

The My Care portal is free to use and optional. It provides patients across Northern Ireland with access to their digital medical record, including medications, appointments and some test results.