Fractures (non-complex): assessment and management

Recommendation ID: NG38/2
Question: Virtual compared with face-to-face clinics:- What is the clinical and cost effectiveness of virtual new patient fracture clinics compared with next-day consultant-led face-to-face clinics in people presenting with non-complex fractures in the emergency department and thought to need an orthopaedic opinion?
Any explanatory notes (if applicable): Why this is important:- Currently many people with fractures are asked to attend a next-day clinic led by a consultant, although it is believed that a virtual clinic may be at least as effective. If this is the case, face-to-face clinics may be an unnecessary use of time and resources for both patients and the NHS. Firm evidence of clinical and cost effectiveness is needed before virtual clinics can be introduced as part of a change in service structure.

Source guidance details

Is this a recommendation for the use of a technology only in the context of research?	No
Is it a recommendation that suggests collection of data or the establishment of a register?	No
Last Reviewed	29/02/2016