Long-awaited first contact physiotherapy specification plan published

The publication details

• what FCP is
• the clinical case for change
• how FCP changes the MSK pathway
• what is needed to implement services successfully
• mobilisation plans across England until 2024

The CSP says the resource will prove valuable in the expansion of FCP as outlined in the NHS Long Term Plan for England.

The CSP worked closely with NHS England on the publication to ensure the guidance incorporated learning from current services across the UK.

The resource includes FCP case studies from CSP members in Lincolnshire, Somerset, Gloucestershire, West Cheshire and Windermere.

Equipping STPs

CSP head of FCP implementation Sarah Withers said: ‘We are pleased to see this plan published, which will serve to equip STPs in implementing more of these highly effective services across the country.

‘Our evidence shows that having MSK first contact physiotherapists in primary care increases GP capacity and speeds up patients’ access to expert advice.

‘This early access reduces the number of referrals and diagnostic tests, which saves money across the system.’

Download the specification from NHS England's website.