First Contact Physiotherapist

First Contact Practitioners (FCP) are qualified autonomous clinical practitioners who can assess, diagnose, treat, and manage musculoskeletal (MSK) problems and undifferentiated conditions – where appropriate – and discharge a person without a medical referral. FCPs working in this role can be accessed directly by self-referral or staff in GP practices can direct patients to them to establish a rapid and accurate diagnosis and management plan to streamline pathways of care.

For more information on this role, visit the NHSE website and Chartered Society of Physiotherapy