How to access physiotherapy

If you needphysiotherapy a number of different options are available to you.

You cansee aphysiotherapist either:

• through the NHS either by gettinga referral from a doctor, by contacting a physiotherapist directly ( self-referral ) or at your GP surgery ( direct access )
• privately

Physiotherapy can also sometimes be accessed through occupational health services , charities, patient groupsand the voluntary sector.

Physiotherapy on theNHS

Physiotherapy is available free of charge on the NHS throughout the UK.

Depending on where you live, you may be able to self-refer (see below) or you mayneed to visit yourGP or consultant first. After discussing your symptoms with your doctor, they may then refer you to a physiotherapist.

You can search forphysiotherapy services near you to find out where you may be referred to.

Self-referral for NHS physiotherapy

Some areasin the UK offer a self-referral service, which means you can make an appointment to see an NHS physiotherapist without having to seea doctorfirst.

However, this isn't available everywhere. Staff at your GP surgery or your local NHS Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) or trust should be able to tell you whether it's available in your area.

Self-referralis particularly suitable for people with relativelysimple conditions such as Joint pain , strains or otherinjuries.

If you have more complex needs for example, you have movement problems caused by a stroke or multiple sclerosis (MS) you may still need a referral from a doctor.

Direct access to physiotherapy

Some physiotherapists also work in GP practices as the first point of contact for patients with musculoskeletal problems, such as neck and back pain, and those with long-term conditions, such as MS or stroke.

When contacting your GP, you may be offered to see the physiotherapist directly, instead of having to see the GP first.

Physiotherapists working in these roles may have advanced skills, such as prescribing and ordering scans.

Private physiotherapy

Waiting lists for NHS physiotherapy can be long and some people choose to have private treatment instead.If you see a physiotherapist privately, you'll have to pay for treatment.

You can usually approach a private physiotherapist directly without a referral from a doctor.

When choosing a private physiotherapist, make sure they're:

• a fully qualified member of a recognised professional body, such as the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP)
• registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)

You can find a private chartered physiotherapist near you using CSP's Physio2u directory . You can also use the Find a physio search facility on the Physio First website.

Occupational health services

Physiotherapy may be available through your workplace.

Some companies provide occupational health services, which include physiotherapy treatment. Check with your manager or Human Resources department to see if it's available where you work.

If you are currently employed, but off work due to ill health and likely to be off for four weeks or more, your GP can refer you to a government service called Fit for Work for help and advice. If you have already been off work for four weeks, your employer can also refer you.