Job summaryFirst contact physiotherapists operate at an advanced level of clinical practice, with skills to assess, diagnose, treat and manage musculoskeletal (MSK) problems and undifferentiated conditions. This will involve seeing patients, without prior referral from their GP, to establish a rapid and accurate diagnosis and management plan, thus streamlining pathways of care. They work independently in clinical practice and do not require day to day supervision.
Main duties of the jobWe recognise the importance of FCPs in Primary Care and the key role that they have in providing quick access to expert diagnosis and treatment, overall improving patient experience and reducing GP workload pressures. You will be delivering a range of health interventions at Practice level using expert triage, assessment and diagnosis to determine which clinical pathway will be most suitable for the patient. You will be the first point of contact, instead of a GP, for patients with musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions who need clinical assessment, diagnosis and management. Clinical management would be evidence-based; through advice on self-management, exercise therapy, and pharmacological and injection therapy (if this falls within your competency), or onward referral to secondary care.
The FCP service plays a crucial role in our general practices and is of upmost importance to our local patient population. It serves as a cornerstone in our pursuit of enhancing health outcomes.
For comprehensive information regarding the job, please refer to the full job description before applying.
Experience of primary care referral pathways are preferred.
About usHealthBridge Direct, the Redbridge GP Federation are supporting Primary Care Networks (PCNs) across the borough to recruit FCPs.
We are a private limited company who provides NHS Services based within Primary Care. We aim to combine the expertise and local GP resources to provide large scale services that align with local NHS strategies. Our ultimate goal is to enhance community-based healthcare for our local population. Helping people to stay well.
We are a thriving Primary Care Network (PCN) based in vibrant Wanstead and Woodford locality. Comprising of 11 General Practices within close proximity, united by a shared vision of exceptional patient care and a strong sense of community.
We pride ourselves on the family culture within our Practices. Our teams are renowned for their warm and welcoming nature, creating an environment which fosters support, development, and care, not only for our patients but also our colleagues.
Job responsibilitiesProvide clinical expertise, acting as first-contact physiotherapist and making decisions about the best course of action for patients' care (including undifferentiated conditions). This will involve seeing patients, without prior contact with their GP, to establish a rapid and accurate diagnosis and management plan.
Progress and request investigations to facilitate diagnosis and choice of treatment pathway; using diagnostic services such as x-rays and blood tests. Interpret and act on results to aid diagnosis and the management plans of patients. Ensuring accurate diagnosis and safe and effective condition management.
Develop integrated and tailored care programs in partnership with patients and provide a range of first line treatment options, including self-management and referral to rehabilitation services and social prescribing provision.
For further details, please refer to the Job Description attached.
QualificationsEssential- BSc/Grad Dip in Physiotherapy
- A minimum of one years post qualification experience.
- HCPC Registration
- CPD pertaining to Primary Care and MSK management
Desirable- MSc or MSc modules for advanced practice
- Extended Scope competencies around bloods, imaging
ExperienceEssential- Expert clinical reasoning skills
- Proven multi-disciplinary working
- Clinical experience of triage and care planning
Desirable- Experience of working in Primary care and first contact roles
- Experience as Senior Physiotherapist working in autonomous MSK role
- Evidence of research activity or skills
- Experience of computer based clinical systems for example EMIS, SystemOne
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions. 
