The Role
First Contact Practitioners (FCPs) are diagnostic clinicians qualified to master’s level who work to support GPs as part of an integrated team. They are able to assess and manage undifferentiated and undiagnosed presentation.
The following professions have been mapped or are being considered for mapping against the FCP role:
- Physiotherapist – Watch AHP Superpowers – Physiotherapist
- Paramedic – Watch AHP Superpowers – Paramedic
- Podiatrist – Watch AHP Superpowers – Podiatrist
- Occupational Therapist – Watch AHP Superpowers – Occupational Therapist
- Dietitian – Watch AHP Superpowers – Dietitian
First Contact Physiotherapists (FCPs) are qualified autonomous clinical practitioners who can assess, diagnose, treat and manage musculoskeletal (MSK) problems and undifferentiated conditions and – where appropriate – discharge a person without a medical referral. FCPs working in this role can be accessed directly by self-referral or by staff in GP practices who can direct patients to them to establish a rapid and accurate diagnosis and management plan to streamline pathways of care.
Benefits for the Practice
- Reduces waiting times
- Improves quality of treatment and recovery
Benefits for the Patient
- Quick access to physiotherapy
- Opportunity to get health advice and to improve self-management of conditions
- More patient satisfaction
Training & Development
The FCP is a clinician educated at master’s degree level with at least 3 years of post-graduate experience in their area of practice.
