Physio first contact

Welcome to NHS Borders First Contact Physiotherapy RefHelp homepage.

First Contact Physiotherapists (FCPs) are highly trained physiotherapists based in GP surgeries. FCPs have extensive experience in the assessment and management of musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions and see these patients without the need for a GP appointment. FCPs can assess you, give you expert advice on how best to manage your condition and refer you onto a specialist service if necessary.

The First Contact Physiotherapy service was established in NHS Borders in 2019. Our aim is to deliver an accessible, equitable, cost effective and fair service across all 23 GP practices in the Scottish Borders region.

Who to refer, who not to refer, how to refer

Who to refer

Inclusion Criteria:

All soft tissue injuries, sprains, strains or sports injuries
Arthritis – any joint
Possible problems with muscles, ligaments, tendons or bone
Spinal pain including lower back pain, mid-back pain and neck pain
Spinal-related pain in arms or legs, including neural symptoms

Who not to refer

Exclusion Criteria:

Acutely unwell
Children under 16
Medical management of rheumatoid conditions
Women’s health, antenatal and postnatal problems
House-bound patients
Medication reviews for non-MSK conditions
Neurological and respiratory conditions
Headaches
Acute mental health crises
Patients who do not want to see a FCP

How to refer

Booking An Appointment:

FCP appointments can be booked directly through your medical practice – contact details listed below. Simply contact your GP practice and request an appointment to see the FCP. The reception team will check that you’re suitable and book an appointment for you. Appointments are only bookable within two weeks to allow early access and prevent creation of a waiting list.