MSK FIRST CONTACT PRACTITIONERS (FCPs)

MSK FCPs are highly experienced and are able to assess, diagnose, treat and manage patients with MSK issues. FCPs are mainly Extended Scope Physiotherapists (ESP) which are advanced physiotherapists with many years of experience.

MSK FCPs are offered as a better alternative to seeing your GP for MSK conditions. Our service aims to improve your access to the Right Care, at the Right Time, from the Right Clinician. Early specialist assessment with advice has been proven to enhance patient recovery and self-management.

The benefits of the MSK FCPs

• Typically will be seen quicker than a GP appointment
• Faster access to Musculoskeletal care
• Longer more in-depth appointments (20 minutes not 10)
• Reduced referrals to other NHS departments (GP into Physio)
• MSK FCPs have direct referral access to tests such as Xray/ ultrasounds where needed

Service eligibility

• Patients aged 18 or over.
• An MSK problem which you are not already under active treatment for
• MSK conditions such as
  • Soft tissue/Muscle/Tendon/Ligament strains/sprains.
  • Joint pain/injury.
  • Acute flare up of a long-term condition.
  • Back/Neck Pain.
  • Postural Pain/Problems.
  • Osteoarthritis.
  • Minor Trauma (Falls / Sports injuries).

The service is inappropiate for you if you have any of the reg flag conditions as well as your MSK concern

• Weight loss
• Previous history of cancer
• Violent trauma
• Fever
• Saddle anaesthesia (loss of sensation of the buttocks, perineum or thighs)
• Difficulty in micturition (abnormailties with the process of urniating)
• Progressive neurology
• Systemic steriod use

eConsult

Econsult will be able to screen and best direct you to the right care in these incidences.Visit your practice website and complete an eConsult

Friarsgate Practice eConsult

St Clements Practice eConsult

St Pauls Surgery eConsult

How do I book in?

Please contact your GP practice as normal and request an MSK appointment from the Receptionist.

Clinic times/ locations?

Friarsgate Surgery, 4b Stockbridge Rd, Weeke, Winchester SO22 6EL
Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday 12:30 - 17:30

St Clement Surgery, Tanner Street, Winchester, SO23 8AD
Monday and Tuesday 10:30 - 13:30, and Friday 10:30 - 15:00

St Paul's Surgery, Alison Way, Winchester, SO22 5DD
Wednesday anf Friday 12:30 - 18:00

How long will my appointment be?

Typically 20 Minutes for the initial assessment and 10 minutes for any subsequent follow up appointment arranged. If you require a longer appointment due to additional needs please advise on booking.