NHS trial shows AI app halves treatment delays
98% of patients completed treatment without face-to-face visits
An AI-powered physiotherapy app has significantly reduced NHS back pain treatment waiting lists in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough by 55%.
The trial, run by Cambridgeshire Community Services NHS Trust, diverted 2,500 clinician hours to more complex cases while offering digital care to routine patients.
The app assesses musculoskeletal (MSK) pain through questions and provides personalised video-guided exercises. It became the first AI physiotherapy tool regulated by the Care Quality Commission and is credited with cutting average MSK wait times from 18 to under 10 weeks.
Patients like Annys Bossom, who initially doubted its effectiveness, found the tool more engaging and valuable than traditional paper instructions.
Data showed that 98% of participants were treated and discharged digitally, while only 2% needed a face-to-face referral.
With growing demand and staff shortages in NHS MSK services, physiotherapists and developers say the technology offers scalable support.
Experts emphasise the need for human oversight and public trust as AI continues to play a larger role in UK healthcare.
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