A PHYSIO service run in partnership between East Lancashire health bodies has been commended in the national health business awards.

An integrated musco-skeletal, pain and rheumatology team has been operated by clinical commissioners in Blackburn with Darwen and East Lancashire since 2015.

The service was shortlisted in the clinical commissioning section at the awards, having previously won a national award from the Society of Rheumatology.

Working with colleagues from East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust, the unit was praised for improving patient care, with each referral assessed by experts.

Dr Tony Mitchell, clinical lead for the integrated service, said: “This has been a huge piece of work that has involved a wide range on input from patients, GPs and other healthcare experts.

“We are keen to build on and further develop this service to support and treat the increasing numbers of patients with musculoskeletal conditions.”