What is First Contact Physiotherapy?
First Contact Physiotherapists (FCP) are experienced musculoskeletal (MSK) physiotherapists, with expertise in assessing, diagnosing, and managing MSK conditions.
How to access an FCP appointment?
You do not need to see a GP to get an appointment with an FCP. Simply call your GP practice and explain that you have an MSK problem (joint, bone, muscle, tendon), and they can book you directly with one of the FCP team. You can also ask your GP, or any other practitioner at Bridge Lane, to do this if you have an appointment with them about something else. There is no referral form required. This service is available to patients aged 16+.
What do expect during your FCP appointment?
Your FCP will take a detailed history of your condition, they may also question some of your past medical history to gain a better understanding of your symptoms, your general health and help rule other pathologies. They will then assess the joint(s) causing problems to aim to gain a detailed diagnosis, which will be explained to you.
The FCP will work with you to come up with a plan, generally this is some rehabilitation exercises and advice on management of your condition. The FCP service is not a physiotherapy treatment service, but your FCP will always make you aware to return if your condition is not getting better.
We may use the GetUBetter self-management app, for exercise progression. If you wanted to trial this before seeing an FCP you can gain access here;
Register for GetUBetter: www.app.getubetter.com/request-access
If your FCP feels you need ongoing physiotherapy treatment, they will refer to the local St. George’s or AQP service.
If your FCP feels that you need further investigations or referral, they are able to refer you for Xrays, scans, or to hospital- based services, or to the local joint injection service.
The FCP’s work closely with the GP’s, and often liaise about conditions and work together if this is required for the management of your condition (e.g. prescriptions.)
Who are the Battersea Fields Practice FCP Team?
At Battersea Fields Practice we have FCP’s from Surrey Physio:
- Jay Ghandi – Monday PM
- Angus Belgrave – Wednesday PM and Thursday AM
- Jenny Du Preez – Tuesday AM and Thursday PM
For more information about what do expect during your FCP appointment- please watch the below video:
St. George’s Physio
St Georges Musculoskeletal Physiotherapy Department. Physiotherapy focuses on restoring movement, strength and function in people with musculoskeletal conditions (conditions affecting the bones, joints, muscles and nerves) or following surgery. Their team of skilled physiotherapists and therapy assistants work together with you, enabling you to improve your quality of life.
Website: www.stgeorges.nhs.uk/musculoskeletal-outpatient-physiotherapy