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
- Easier accessibility for other patients requiring medical
- Reduced waiting times and faster
- Higher patient satisfaction
HOW DO I BOOK AN APPOINTMENT?
When you contact reception, we will ask you a few questions related to your condition. If your symptoms fit with a MSK condition, you will be booked in to see the FCP.
Any Questions or Queries, please contact Reception.