What is a First Contact Physiotherapist?

A First Contact Physiotherapist or a First Contact Practitioner (FCP), is a healthcare professional working at the GP surgery, and being the ‘first contact’ for a patient. This means that you do not need to see a GP in order to see the FCP, you can ask to see them directly without referral if you have a musculoskeletal (MSK) problem. The FCP can undertake specialist assessment and provide appropriate advice and establish a management plan that is appropriate for you.

Physiotherapists working as FCP’s are experienced musculoskeletal clinicians who have experience of assessing and managing bone, muscle, nerve or joint conditions. FCPs provide evidence-based healthcare in line with best-practice NHS guidance and can make referrals to other services if required.

​What can an FCP do?

• Provide expert musculoskeletal assessments.

• Advise on best management of MSK conditions.

• Refer onwards if further treatment is required to services including physiotherapy, rheumatology, pain management or orthopedics.

• If clinically indicated, can refer you for certain investigations.

• Some FCPs can inject joints for pain relief.                                                                                                                                                                   
• All FCPS can liaise with your doctor for medication if needed.                                                                                                                            
• Some FCPs can presicribe specific medicines.

What can an FCP not do?

An FCP does not provide a physiotherapy service. They cannot, therefore, provide ongoing, regular treatment. If this is required an FCP can refer you to a physiotherapy team.

Why would you see an FCP rather than a GP?

FCP’s are experts in seeing patients with musculoskeletal (MSK) problems. Often they will be able to see you sooner than you can get a routine GP appointment. However, you should see your GP for any medical issues.

FCP appointments are booked in the first instance for all musculoskeletal issues. All FCP's can liaise with your doctor for medication if needed. The FCP's if they feel it is appropriate can then refer onto Secondary care I.E scans and Hospital Physios. 

Does seeing an FCP delay access to active treatment, onward referral etc?

Absolutely not. Because of their experience and training, seeing an FCP can minimize delays in diagnosing your problem. They can give you specific advice on how to manage your condition and refer you on quickly if that is required.

FCP’s are specialists in musculoskeletal healthcare and will provide you with an accurate diagnosis and evidence-based management plan. FCP’s are familiar with the local NHS pathways, and if appropriate, can send detailed referrals that will ultimately reach the patient’s desired location more efficiently.

How can a patient be seen by an FCP?

Just ask the receptionist for an appointment with the FCP. Reception teams are specially trained to determine who is appropriate for review by the FCP so if you are happy to share that your problem is related to a muscle, bone, nerve or joint issue at the time of booking, they will arrange an appointment for you.