Supporting your GP surgery in effectively managing MSK-related workload across your practices or Primary Care Network (PCN)...
We are a leading provider of First Contact Physiotherapy (FCP), Ultrasound Scanning, Community Pain Clinics, and Podiatry Services across the UK. With a team of FCPs, Extended Scope Practitioners (ESP), and Pain Specialists, we support over four counties, helping manage MSK-related workloads efficiently within Primary Care Networks.
If your PCN is looking to utilize ARRS funding to establish an FCP service, we provide a cost-effective solution that grants member practices access to high-quality care—without the burden of employment responsibilities or clinical supervision.
The Role of First Contact Physiotherapists in Primary Care
Lower back and neck pain are among the leading causes of disability in the UK, with chronic joint pain and osteoarthritis affecting over 8.75 million people. Additionally, musculoskeletal conditions account for 30% of all GP appointments.
By 2024, all adults in England should have direct access to a musculoskeletal first contact practitioner (FCP) at their local GP practice, without needing a GP referral.
Most FCPs are physiotherapists with advanced expertise in managing musculoskeletal conditions. They assist patients experiencing back, neck, and joint pain by:
- Assessing and diagnosing conditions
- Providing expert guidance on self-management techniques
- Referring patients to specialist services when needed
Improving access to experienced MSK practitioners enables patients to receive timely diagnoses and treatments, supporting better condition management and faster recovery. Additionally, this helps GPs streamline their workload while minimizing the need for further referrals.
What the NHS Says…
According to NHS England, musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions account for up to 30% of GP consultations and 10% of all GP referrals. The First Contact Physiotherapy (FCP) service offers several key benefits, including:
Faster access to treatment
Reduced GP workload and associated costs, leading to shorter waiting times
Lower prescription and secondary referral costs
Increased emphasis on self-management and a reduction in unnecessary referrals
What to Expect from an FCP Appointment…
During an appointment, the First Contact Physiotherapist (FCP) will review the patient’s medical history and perform clinical tests to evaluate the condition. The goal is to identify the most effective recovery plan.
For most MSK patients, treatment involves personalized guidance and targeted exercises provided through RehabMyPatient software, ensuring a structured and effective rehabilitation process. If symptoms continue, patients can book a follow-up appointment with the FCP to discuss further treatment options.
For MSK patients referred appropriately, GP involvement is rarely necessary. However, if required, the First Contact Physiotherapist (FCP) can seamlessly coordinate with the GP. FCPs also have the authority to refer patients for further care, including imaging (X-rays or scans), joint injections, or specialist consultations with the local orthopaedic team.
Additionally, we provide training for receptionists and administrative teams to ensure MSK referrals are efficiently directed to the FCP service, optimizing patient care and streamlining the referral process.