First contact physiotherapy service

These services aim to reduce the amount of time that patients wait for help with musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions; problems that affect the muscles, bones, and joints. It also aims to provide patients with a high quality assessment, advice and information whilst also reducing the time that GPs spend assessing MSK-related conditions.

In practices where this service is available, you will be offered an assessment with a first contact physiotherapy practitioner instead of a GP if you need discuss a new or ongoing musculoskeletal problem. The physiotherapist will provide an initial assessment of your condition and either offer immediate advice on how to manage the condition, for example with exercises and pain medications, and/or arrange further investigations including scans or blood tests if required.  If you need a course of treatment from a physiotherapist or other practitioner, or a referral to the hospital, this can also be arranged for you.

Following the NHS England national roll out of first contact physiotherapy service Lincolnshire Community Health  Service are currently providing this service at the following GP practices;