DocHQ, a pioneering health and wellbeing partner, has announced that its innovative AI-driven remote physiotherapy service, DocHQ Physio, has received a prestigious grant from the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR). This grant will fund further studies on the groundbreaking tool and its potential to revolutionize musculoskeletal (MSK) care both in the private sector and the NHS.
In July 2023, DocHQ received an initial grant from NIHR to begin the first phase of an engagement study on their unique AI physiotherapy tool. The study aims to explore the platform’s adherence to standards and regulatory requirements, positioning DocHQ Physio for integration into the NHS framework.
The report submitted to NIHR after completing the first phase of the study highlights the potential of DocHQ Physio in key areas such as exercise management in osteoarthritis, behavioral change to enhance exercise adherence, and the impact of surgical procedures and waiting lists on patient outcomes.
DocHQ Physio’s AI technology is designed to assist in injury rehabilitation and facilitate recovery from a range of MSK issues. Through remote video assessments, check-ins, and treatment plans, patients can receive physiotherapy without leaving their homes. The online platform uses cutting-edge AI movement tracking technology to detect patients’ movements and provide real-time visual and audio corrective feedback.
The tool’s aim is to accelerate recovery through precise remote tracking by physiotherapists, who can adjust treatment plans in a timely manner, leading to higher adherence rates, increased convenience, and enhanced motivation for the patient.
DocHQ Physio aims to empower patients to effectively manage pain and musculoskeletal injuries, ultimately reducing NHS wait lists by providing quick and instant access to expert physiotherapy. This is especially important in a post-pandemic world, where access to in-person appointments may be limited.
Tiggy Corben, DocHQ’s Physiotherapy Lead, explains, “Patients often struggle to do their physio exercises due to uncertainty and lack of reassurance that they are doing it correctly. AI exercises will give them feedback, meaning their exercise techniques can be instantly corrected. As physios, we can monitor not only whether the patient is doing the exercises, but also how well they are performing them. This saves time for both the patient and the clinic.”
The NIHR grant will allow DocHQ to continue developing and refining their physiotherapy tool, with the goal of establishing it as a mainstay in practice both in the UK and globally.
To learn more about DocHQ Physio and potential collaboration opportunities, please contact DocHQ’s commercial, media, or engagement study representatives.
About DocHQ:
DocHQ is a specialist medical technology provider that aims to enhance wellbeing at work and home. They connect businesses, providers, and consumers through technology, offering a range of employee benefits including physiotherapy, health checks, fitness, and travel health.
About NIHR:
The National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) is a government-funded organization that aims to improve the health and wealth of the nation through research. Its work includes funding high-quality research, investing in expertise and facilities, and collaborating with other public funders, charities, and industry to improve the relevance, quality, and impact of research.
