Did you know?

Posted on May 9th, 2024

We have First Contact Physios (FCPs), who are highly trained and experienced physiotherapists serving as your first point of contact for musculoskeletal concerns.

The role of First Contact Physios in primary care is to assess patients with soft tissue, muscle and joint pain and to decide on the most appropriate management.

They can also:

• Give expert advice on how best to manage conditions.
• Order investigations.
• Make referrals into secondary care services such as physiotherapists, using the same pathways as GPs.
• Arrange prescriptions.
• Provide injection therapy.

The service will provide you with a thorough assessment and advice about the best treatment plan for you.

In most cases, you do not need to see your GP for these kinds of problems, so please book an appointment with one of our First Contact Physios instead of with your doctor. The appointments are also allocated 20 minutes, allowing sufficient time to discuss your concerns.

What if I think I need surgery or to see a hospital Consultant?

Our FCPs work very closely with the MSK service (Circle). This means that if clinically indicated, you will be referred to Circle health who will triage and refer on directly to Orthopaedics or Rheumatology.

Your FCP will discuss your options with you and help you reach the decision which is best for you.

How do I access the service?

You can book an appointment with one of our First Contact Physios via the NHS App, eConsult or by speaking to our Patient Services Team.

We have first contact physio appointments available across our sites.

Even if you do not ask for one, you may be offered an appointment within this service if we believe it is the most appropriate option for your case. For example following you being placed onto our triage list or signposted by our Patient Services Team.

Please note appointments cannot be made for children under 16 years of age.