Implementing and evaluating Wessex MECC HCS in MSK services
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Implementing and evaluating ’Making Every Contact Count Healthy Conversation Skills’ for musculoskeletal physiotherapists and service users
IRAS ID
295545
Contact name
Amelia Parchment
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Bath
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 3 months, 31 days
Research summary
This is a mixed methods, controlled before and after evaluation study. The current application describes the quantitative components of this study. A subsequent ethics application will be submitted describing the qualitative, follow up interviews. Research is warranted to explore whether the evidenced acceptability and effectiveness of brief behaviour change intervention, ’Healthy Conversation Skills’, can extend to physiotherapists and their musculoskeletal service users, since musculoskeletal conditions continue to be a growing public health concern. Many risk factors for musculoskeletal conditions can be targeted by brief interventions such as Making Every Contact Count Healthy Conversation Skills (MECC HCS).\n\nQuantitative measures will be used to explore changes in the competence and confidence of musculoskeletal physiotherapists in using healthy conversations skills to support behaviour change in service users, following MECC HCS training. These changes will be compared to those of a control group of musculoskeletal physiotherapists, who will not receive MECC HCS training. \n\nOther quantitative measures will assess changes in self-reported dietary quality, physical activity, pain intensity, mental health and self-efficacy of individuals with musculoskeletal conditions, following exposure to MECC HCS. These individuals will be attending routine physiotherapy appointments with musculoskeletal physiotherapists also recruited to this study. Any observed changes will be compared to those of a control group, attending regular physiotherapy appointments but receiving no MECC HCS intervention.\n\nMusculoskeletal physiotherapists will be allocated to the intervention or control group by the chief investigator. Allocation of service users to either group will depend upon that of their physiotherapist.\n
REC name
East of England - Cambridge East Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
21/EE/0107
Date of REC Opinion
10 May 2021
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion