WHAT ARE FCPs?
A first contact practitioner (FCP) is an experienced physiotherapist who has
the advanced skills necessary to assess, diagnose and manage musculoskeletal
(MSK) conditions. MSK conditions affect the bones, joint and muscle but can
include other problems such as back pain and related nerve pain.
An FCP service allows patients who would normally present to their GP
with an MSK issue, to self-refer to a professional with expertise in that
field. You don’t need to see your GP for back pain, neck pain, osteoarthritis
or general joint pains, you can now see a FCP.
WHY SHOULD I SEE A FCP PRACTITIONER?
- Quicker access to expert MSK assessment, diagnosis, treatment and advice
from their first appointment. - Access to specialists with a wide knowledge of musculoskeletal conditions
- Longer appointments times (20 minutes as opposed to 10 minutes
GP appointments) - Streamlines the MSK pathway, so patients have fewer appointments
to attend. - Easier accessibility for other patients requiring medical appointments.
- Reduced waiting times and faster recovery.
- Higher patient satisfaction ratings.
HOW DO I BOOK AN APPOINTMENT?
To request an appointment, please use our online forms.
If your symptoms fit with a MSK condition, you will be booked in to see the FCP.