In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, the NHS continues to face a unique set of challenges. One area that has been significantly affected is the availability of specialised treatments, such as ultrasound-guided steroid injections for pain relief. For many patients, prolonged NHS waiting lists have become a frustrating reality, resulting in many musculoskeletal conditions becoming chronic, resulting in continued pain and loss of function.
The NHS, while offering excellent healthcare services, has been burdened by the lingering impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Elective procedures and specialised treatments like ultrasound-guided injections have, unfortunately, taken a back seat as resources become diverted. As a result, many patients suffering from musculoskeletal pain have found themselves in a difficult situation, waiting for treatment whilst experiencing prolonged pain, discomfort and loss in mobility.
However, there are alternatives to long waiting lists. Complete Injections offer fast, safe and effective private ultrasound-guided injections at an affordable price. In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits of ultrasound-guided injections at Complete Injections and why you might consider going private.
What are Ultrasound-Guided Injections?
Ultrasound-guided injections are the gold standard method for delivering medication directly to the source of the pain. An ultrasound machine is used to guide the needle straight to the target. Research has shown this technique to be highly effective and accurate. Ultrasound-guided injections are also incredibly safe. Delicate structures, such as nerves and blood vessels, can be seen and avoided. Furthermore, because the needle is monitored throughout the procedure this technique has been shown to be quicker, and much less painful than unguided injections.
Why choose a private ultrasound-guided injection at Complete Injections?
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Highly skilled clinicians:
all our clinicians are highly experienced advanced practice physiotherapists, musculoskeletal sonographers, injection therapists and independent prescribers. This combination of skills allows Complete to provide ultrasound-guided injections without the need for a referral from your doctor. All our clinicians are highly respected and teach both diagnostic ultrasound and injection therapy to health professionals across the world as well as run postgraduate university courses across the UK.
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Fast pain relief:
Complete Injections offer incredibly low waiting times (on average 2-3 days). We can often see you on the same day as your initial enquiry.
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Precise, targeted treatment:
ultrasound-guided injections use real-time imaging to accurately guide the injection to the target area ensuring the medication is delivered exactly where it’s needed. Ultrasound guidance ensures gold standard effectiveness whilst minimising the risk of complications.
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Individualised treatment:
an appointment at Complete Injections includes a full clinical assessment, including a diagnostic ultrasound scan. Once you have been provided with an accurate diagnosis the correct, most clinically effective treatment can be offered. If an injection is needed your clinical specialist will be able to discuss this with you and provide you with an ultrasound-guided injection in the same appointment. There is no need to make a second appointment or have a GP referral prior to having your injection. All our specialists are able to prescribe the appropriate medication for you during your appointment.
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Cost-effectiveness:
while private healthcare might sound expensive, ultrasound-guided injections at Complete Injections may not be as expensive as you first thought. There are no hidden charges or the need for multiple visits to have a single injection. You will be assessed, scanned and have an injection all in one appointment. For a full list of prices please click here.
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Patient experience:
Complete injections prioritise patient experience. Your journey from booking an appointment though to post-injection care is individually tailored to your needs. You will have direct email contact with your treating clinician throughout the whole process.
Frequently asked questions about private injections
Am I allowed to have private treatment alongside NHS treatment?
Yes you are. The NHS clearly states that it is your right to choose where you seek treatment from and reports that patients can have both NHS and private treatments running concurrently.
The NHS guidelines concerning concurrent private treatment says that your position on an NHS waiting list should not be affected if you choose to have private healthcare. However, it also states that the NHS cannot subsidise your private treatment. This must be paid by the individual.
Should I cancel my NHS appointment after having a private treatment?
We highly recommend you do not cancel any future NHS appointments after you have an ultrasound-guided injection at Complete. We believe it is important to ‘remain in the NHS system’. With prolonged waiting lists and delays in treatments it is prudent to keep any future appointments open. If you do need further tests or treatments you will be seen much quicker if you remain on an NHS waiting list.
How do we communicate private treatments with your GP?
Although you don’t need a referral from your GP to undertake an ultrasound guided injection we believe an open dialogue, between our service and the NHS, is essential for safe and effective healthcare. After an ultrasound guided injection at Complete you will receive a clinical letter describing your diagnosis and the procedure you had, including the medications and doses used. To ensure your NHS records are up-to-date and accurate we highly recommend that you share this letter with your GP. Furthermore, if there are any concerns about other medical conditions you may have, we will write you a letter to share with your GP requesting further information prior to undertaking an injection. We will also request further investigations within the clinical letter when appropriate.
While the NHS remains a cornerstone of healthcare in the UK, the effect of long waiting lists on quality of life cannot be ignored. If you are in pain and need help you do have options. Private ultrasound-guided injections at Complete provide fast, safe and effective pain relief. If you would like to know more, or to book an appointment, please contact Complete Injections on 020 7482 3875 or email injections@complete-physio.co.uk.