First Contact Physiotherapy
Is it for me?
If you're injured or in pain but don't require A&E, this service is likely to be a good fit. First Contact Physio can see you quickly and get you started on exercises to help
More Information
Musculoskeletal (MSK) related health issues are the most common cause of frequent and repeat GP appointments and can account for between 10 and 20 per cent of overall appointments; most of them could be dealt with by a physiotherapist without any need to see the GP.
The First Contact Physio project is the first of its kind in North Lincolnshire. It will see all 19 practices working together to support the delivery of a North Lincolnshire wide ‘First point of contact service’.
The role of First Point of Contact Physiotherapist
General practice ‘first contact’ physiotherapy roles are a relatively new form of self-referral which further develops GP and physio services alongside enhancing patient care. Evidence suggests that they have a strong role to play in supporting primary care, by broadening the primary care team, and supporting more services to be delivered in an ‘out of hospital’ setting. Patients can access physiotherapist expertise without the need to initially see a GP.
Benefits to you the patient
- Patients with Musculoskeletal symptoms will have access to expert assessment, diagnosis, treatment and advice
- The service removes the need for unnecessary GP appointments
- A North Lincolnshire wide service that is also available locally to suit the needs of the patient
- Longer appointment times means you feel listened to, cared for, and reassured, this can increase your own confidence to ‘self-care’
- Access to the service will also be available in extended hours, increasing availability of the service to those who work or cannot access services during routine hours because of caring responsibilities etc.
Patients who do request an appointment with a GP for a MSK related condition will then have opportunity to choose whether they wish to be directly referred into the First Point of Contact Physiotherapy service. Appointments for this service will be offered at a variety of locations and times across North Lincolnshire.
HOW TO BOOK
Please contact your GP Practice and indicate your preference for First Contact Physiotherapy.
Looking for further advice and guidance on the First Contact Physiotherapy (FCP) booking process?
