Clinics and Services

If you have joint, muscle, or nerve pain affecting your neck, back, or other areas, you don’t always need to see a GP first. Instead, you can book directly with a First Contact Practitioner (FCP).

What is a First Contact Practitioner (FCP)?

An FCP is a highly trained and experienced Physiotherapist with advanced skills to assess, diagnose, and recommend the best treatment for problems involving joints, muscles, and nerves.

Depending on your needs, your FCP may:

• Give you tailored exercise and self-management advice
• Refer you for scans (X-ray, MRI, Ultrasound)
• Request suitable medication through your GP
• Arrange blood tests
• Refer you to a specialist service such as Rheumatology or Orthopaedics

All FCPs are trained to spot ‘red flag’ symptoms that may require urgent medical attention, ensuring your safety at all times.

FCPs work closely with GPs so you can see the most appropriate clinician quickly, helping to reduce your pain and improve your movement.

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 see an FCP instead of a GP?

• Faster access to care: One in five GP appointments are for muscle, joint, or nerve pain. With an FCP, you can see the right specialist straight away, without waiting for a referral.
• Expert assessment: FCPs have specialist knowledge in musculoskeletal problems, giving you quicker access to the right treatment.
• Joined-up care: If you do need further tests, treatment, or a referral, your FCP can arrange this directly.

How do I book an appointment with an FCP?

Please contact the practice and ask the receptionist to book an appointment directly for you.