Job overview
Join to apply for the First Contact Physiotherapist role at NHS.
The First Contact Physiotherapist (FCP) role within the NHS Primary Care Network (PCN) aims to provide expert musculoskeletal (MSK) assessment and management at the first point of patient contact, reducing the demand on GP services and improving patient outcomes. FCPs work autonomously, delivering timely, effective assessment, diagnosis, and management of MSK conditions, including advice, treatment, and onward referral if needed.
Job Responsibilities
* Provide first-contact assessment, diagnosis, and management for patients with MSK conditions in primary care, delivering timely, evidence-based treatments including exercise prescription, manual therapy, pain management, and education.
* Manage caseloads independently within scope of practice, supporting patient self-management and promoting lifestyle changes to enhance long-term health.
* Work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team to ensure integrated, patient-centred care.
* Make appropriate onward referrals to secondary care or allied health professionals, and support PCN initiatives to improve MSK service access and reduce GP workload.
* Conduct thorough MSK assessments using best-practice clinical techniques and apply clinical reasoning to create treatment plans.
* Maintain up-to-date knowledge of NHS protocols, clinical guidelines, and infection prevention standards.
* Record accurate, GDPR-compliant clinical notes and use IT systems effectively for patient records, appointments, and communication.
* Contribute to service development through audits, quality improvement projects, data collection, and reporting.
* Participate in team meetings and training sessions, supporting continuous improvement and CPD.
* Handle patient enquiries with professionalism and confidentiality, and assist with management of clinical supplies and resources to maintain safe, effective service delivery.
Technical and Administrative
* Conduct thorough MSK assessments using evidence-based clinical examination techniques.
* Diagnose MSK conditions accurately and develop appropriate treatment plans.
* Deliver a range of physiotherapy interventions, including manual therapy, exercise prescription, pain management, and self-management advice.
* Use clinical reasoning to decide when to refer patients to secondary care or other allied health professionals.
* Maintain up-to-date knowledge of clinical guidelines, NHS protocols, and best practice in MSK care.
* Use IT systems confidently for patient record keeping, appointment scheduling, and communication within the multidisciplinary team.
* Participate in clinical audits and quality improvement activities to enhance service delivery.
* Apply infection prevention and control measures according to NHS standards.
* Record detailed and accurate clinical notes in electronic health records (EHR) in line with NHS data governance and GDPR requirements.
* Manage appointment bookings and ensure efficient use of clinic time.
* Liaise with other healthcare professionals, both within and outside the PCN, to coordinate patient care.
* Complete required documentation for referrals, discharge summaries, and follow-up plans.
* Report service activity and outcomes as required by PCN or NHS management.
* Participate in team meetings and training sessions, contributing to service development discussions.
* Handle patient enquiries professionally and always ensure confidentiality.
* Support the management of clinical supplies and equipment relevant to physiotherapy services.
General Responsibilities
* Provide first point of contact assessment, diagnosis, and management for patients presenting with musculoskeletal conditions within the primary care setting.
* Manage a clinical caseload autonomously, ensuring timely and appropriate care.
* Deliver evidence-based physiotherapy treatments, including manual therapy, exercise prescription, and pain management.
* Promote patient self-management and provide education to support long-term health and wellbeing.
* Collaborate effectively with GPs, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to ensure integrated patient care.
* Maintain accurate and up-to-date patient records in line with NHS and GDPR standards.
* Make appropriate referrals to secondary care or specialist services when necessary.
* Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings, contributing clinical expertise and service development ideas.
* Support quality improvement initiatives, audits, and data collection relevant to service delivery.
* Keep professional knowledge and skills current through ongoing training and continuing professional development.
* Adhere to all relevant NHS policies, procedures, and clinical governance frameworks.
* Ensure infection prevention and control measures are followed during clinical practice.
* Manage workload efficiently, balancing clinical duties with administrative tasks.
Qualifications
* Essential: HCPC registered
* Desirable: EMIS and SystemOne
Experience
* Essential: MSK
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion statements and UK registration requirements are applicable as per NHS standards.
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