Low back and neck pain are the greatest cause of years lost to disability in the UK, and musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions account for about 30% of all GP appointments.
First Contact Practitioners (FCP’s) are physiotherapists with enhanced skills, specifically trained to treat such conditions.
They are being implemented across the UK and patients can ask their receptionist to refer them to FCPs without having to get a GP referral.
What does a First Contact Practitioner do?
- Assesses, diagnoses and provides treatment plans
- Requests investigations for musculoskeletal problems and reviews results
- Provides quicker treatment, response and immediate management of problems at the initial appointment
- Refers/ signposts patients to local resources, services and specialist services
- Provides information on self-care and witness for work
- Advises on how to manage your condition
When to see a First Contact Practitioner?
- If you have a soft tissue injury, sprain, strain, sports injury, arthritis, problems with muscles, ligaments, tendons, bones, back or neck pain
- You have spinal-related pain such as pins and needles or numbness
- You are post orthopaedic surgery
- You have tennis elbow or carpel tunnel syndrome
To make an appointment, complete an online consultation or ask your GP practice reception team.
