FIRST CONTACT

PHYSIOTHERAPY (FCP)

FIRST CONTACT PHYSIOTHERAPY (FCP) SERVICES

First Contact Practitioner (FCP) Physiotherapy clinics involve Physiotherapists working within GP practices, acting as a first point of contact for patients with musculoskeletal (MSK) related pain and dysfunction.


Studies have shown that approximately 30% of GP consultations are related to MSK conditions which FCP Physiotherapists may be able see instead. This has significant advantages for both the patient and GP practice.


At Performance Physiotherapy we have been involved in the successful delivery of FCP Physiotherapy services to local GP practices since 2016. Over this time we have developed an effective model of care that has received high patient satisfaction ratings and positive feedback from the GP practices that we work in

BENEFITS OUR FCP SERVICE CAN PROVIDE GP PRACTICES:

  • IMPROVED PATIENT ACCESS

    One of the key advantages of FCP physiotherapy is improved patient access to timely and appropriate care. By having a physiotherapist on-site, patients with musculoskeletal conditions or injuries can be seen promptly without the need for referral to a specialist or long waiting times. This streamlines the patient journey and ensures that individuals receive early intervention, leading to better outcomes and reduced healthcare costs.

  • EFFICIENT TRIAGE AND MANAGEMENT

    FCP physiotherapists are skilled in triaging patients with musculoskeletal complaints. They have the expertise to accurately diagnose and assess the severity of conditions, enabling them to provide appropriate treatment or refer patients to other healthcare professionals when necessary. This efficient triage system allows GPs to focus on more complex cases and patients with non-musculoskeletal issues, thus optimizing their time and expertise.

  • HOLISTIC AND COMPREHENSIVE CARE

    Physiotherapy, in conjunction with GP care, offers a holistic and comprehensive approach to managing patients' health. FCP physiotherapists have a deep understanding of musculoskeletal anatomy, function, and rehabilitation techniques. 


    They can provide personalized treatment plans, including exercises, manual therapy, education, and lifestyle advice, to address patients' specific needs. This collaborative approach ensures patients receive well-rounded care that considers both their physical and broader healthcare requirements.

  • REDUCED GP WORKLOAD

    By incorporating FCP physiotherapy into GP practices, the workload on GPs is significantly reduced. GPs can delegate musculoskeletal cases to the physiotherapist, allowing them to focus on other medical conditions, complex cases, and preventive care. This redistribution of workload optimizes the efficiency of the GP practice and improves overall patient satisfaction.

  • COST EFFECTIVENESS

    FCP physiotherapy has shown potential for cost savings in the healthcare system. By reducing the need for specialist referrals, unnecessary diagnostic tests, and unnecessary medications, FCP physiotherapy can lead to substantial cost reductions. 


    Additionally, early intervention and targeted management of musculoskeletal conditions can prevent complications, long-term disability, and the need for more invasive interventions, further reducing healthcare expenditures.

  • ENHANCED PROFESSIONAL COLLABORATION

    The integration of FCP physiotherapy within GP practices fosters interprofessional collaboration. Physiotherapists can engage in regular case discussions, share expertise, and collaborate on patient care plans with GPs and other healthcare professionals. This collaborative environment promotes knowledge exchange, skill development, and the delivery of patient-centered care.

First Contact Physiotherapy brings a multitude of benefits to GP practices, patients, and the healthcare system as a whole. By improving patient access, providing efficient triage, delivering holistic care, reducing GP workload, and offering cost-effective solutions, FCP physiotherapy enhances the overall quality and efficiency of primary care services.



This collaborative model exemplifies the potential of interprofessional teamwork in transforming healthcare delivery, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes and satisfaction.