Evidence highlights benefits of physiotherapy in primary care

Physiotherapy works for primary care - read the evidence in the new briefing, below

That’s the message from an evidence-based briefing about the benefits of physiotherapy services in primary care, launched by the CSP.

The briefing makes the case for physiotherapists working alongside GPs as the first contact practitioners for patients with musculoskeletal problems.

It shows that physios working in GP practices can

• reduce referrals to secondary orthopaedics
• reduce unrequired investigations, such as x-rays and MRI scans
• increase the number of patients who can self-manage effectively

It also illustrates the clinical and cost effectiveness of physio within primary care, and demonstrates how physiotherapy services can cut demand, save money and reduce pressure on GPs.

Ruth ten Hove, the CSP’s head of research and development, told Frontline: ‘The briefing highlights that there are currently great opportunities for physiotherapists to develop new and innovative services in primary care, and to put into practice early intervention and prevention strategies.

‘As well as optimising the value of self-referral in primary care physiotherapists are well placed to take on frontline roles with patients, offering a pathway which could include assessment, diagnosis, management and independent prescribing.’

The briefing provides quick reference data for physios and is also designed to help make the case for physiotherapy to GPs and health commissioners.