What is a First Contact Practitioner (FCP)?
A First Contact Practitioner (FCP) is an experienced physiotherapist who works within primary care, often based directly in GP practices or community clinics, as the first point of contact for patients presenting with musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions.
Instead of seeing a GP first, patients can be assessed, diagnosed, and managed by an FCP, who has the advanced clinical expertise to determine the best course of action.
FCPs are highly trained to:
Conduct comprehensive assessments of MSK conditions (e.g., back, neck, joint, or soft tissue problems).
Provide specialist advice, exercise prescription, and management plans without requiring a GP appointment.
Request investigations such as imaging (where appropriate).
Refer directly to secondary care services (orthopaedics, rheumatology, pain management) when necessary.
Support work and lifestyle modifications, ensuring faster recovery and improved function.
How to Book an Appointment with an FCP
If you have a new or recurring musculoskeletal problem (such as back, neck, shoulder, or knee pain), you can request an appointment with an FCP through your local GP practice.
When you contact your GP surgery:
Ask for an appointment with a First Contact Practitioner (FCP) – this may be offered instead of a GP appointment for MSK-related issues.
The FCP will assess your condition, provide specialist advice, and, if needed,
Refer you to the Bradford Physiotherapy team for further treatment or ongoing rehabilitation.
This process ensures that you are seen promptly by the most appropriate clinician, helping you recover faster and reducing unnecessary delays in your care pathway.