First Contact Practitioner (FCP) Services

We are now offering a First Contact Practitioner (FCP) service, in partnership with Pure Unity Physiotherapy. An FCP is a specialist physiotherapist with additional training in order to support patients with musculoskeletal (MSK) problems. They will be providing expert assessments and guidance to patients experiencing joint, spinal, tendon and other MSK issues, without needing to see a GP first. 

How can an FCP help?

FCPs are MSK specialists training to assess and diagnose patients with routine and complex MSK problems which can include:

• Assessment and diagnosis with onward management planning
• Advice, guidance and self management to ensure patients are doing the right things
• Exercise advice where needed to support recovery
• Signposting to local servicse that might be helpful
• Onward referrals and investigations as needed 

How to access the service

You do not need a GP appointment to use this service.

If you have a physical or musculoskeletal problem, simply submit a SystmConnect request using the New Condition option. Your request will be reviewed and directed to our First Contact Physiotherapist, who will arrange the most appropriate next step — usually a telephone or face‑to‑face assessment.

When FCP is not the right service

For certain issues, you may need a different type of clinical support. Please do not use FCP for:

• Medication reviews

• Fit notes or administrative requests

• Neurological symptoms (numbness, weakness, facial drooping)

• Severe trauma or suspected fractures