Job Description

Job Type & Salary

Job Type: Self-Employed Hours : 15 hours per week Salary: 25-30per hour(Depending on Experience) Hours: 8-hour shift Location to cover 2 practices- Preston Road Surgery and Sudbury Primary Care

We do not provide Sponsorships

Job Context and Summary:

The First Contact Physiotherapist (FCP) role within NHS Primary Care Network (PCN) aims to provide expert musculoskeletal (MSK) assessment and management at the first point of patient contact, reducing the demand on GP services and improving patient outcomes.

FCPs work autonomously, delivering timely, effective assessment, diagnosis, and management of MSK conditions, including advice, treatment, and onward referral if needed.

Job Specific responsibilities- Clinical :

Act as the first point of contact for patients presenting with MSK conditions within primary care, offering timely and effective assessment, diagnosis, treatment, and advice. Manage patient caseloads independently, ensuring clinical decisions are made within scope of practice. Provide evidence-based treatments including exercise prescription, manual therapy, pain management techniques, and education. Facilitate patient self-management and promote lifestyle changes to support long-term health. Work collaboratively with GPs, nurses, and other multidisciplinary team members to ensure integrated care. Maintain clear, accurate patient records, complying with NHS and GDPR standards. Make appropriate onward referrals to secondary care or other services when necessary. Support PCN initiatives aimed at reducing GP workload and improving access to MSK services. Participate in clinical audits, quality improvement projects, and service evaluation. Engage in continuous professional development and keep up to date with clinical guidelines and best practices. Deliver health promotion and disease prevention advice related to MSK health.

Technical and Administrative:

Conduct thorough musculoskeletal (MSK) assessments using evidence-based clinical examination techniques. Diagnose MSK conditions accurately and develop appropriate treatment plans. Deliver a range of physiotherapy interventions, including manual therapy, exercise prescription, pain management, and advice on self-management. Use clinical reasoning to decide when to refer patients to secondary care or other allied health professionals. Maintain up-to-date knowledge of clinical guidelines, NHS protocols, and best practice in MSK care. Use IT systems confidently for patient record keeping, appointment scheduling, and communication within the multidisciplinary team. Participate in clinical audits and quality improvement activities to enhance service delivery. Apply infection prevention and control measures according to NHS standards. Record detailed and accurate clinical notes in electronic health records (EHR) in line with NHS data governance and GDPR requirements. Manage appointment bookings and ensure efficient use of clinic time. Liaise with other healthcare professionals, both within and outside the PCN, to coordinate patient care. Complete required documentation for referrals, discharge summaries, and follow-up plans. Report service activity and outcomes as required by PCN or NHS management. Participate in team meetings and training sessions, contributing to service development discussions. Handle patient enquiries professionally and always ensure confidentiality. Support the management of clinical supplies and equipment relevant to physiotherapy services.

General Responsibilities:

Provide first point of contact assessment, diagnosis, and management for patients presenting with musculoskeletal conditions within the primary care setting. Manage a clinical caseload autonomously, ensuring timely and appropriate care. Deliver evidence-based physiotherapy treatments, including manual therapy, exercise prescription, and pain management. Promote patient self-management and provide education to support long-term health and wellbeing. Collaborate effectively with GPs, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to ensure integrated patient care. Maintain accurate and up-to-date patient records in line with NHS and GDPR standards. Make appropriate referrals to secondary care or specialist services when necessary. Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings, contributing clinical expertise and service development ideas. Support quality improvement initiatives, audits, and data collection relevant to service delivery. Keep professional knowledge and skills current through ongoing training and continuing professional development. Adhere to all relevant NHS policies, procedures, and clinical governance frameworks. Ensure infection prevention and control measures are followed during clinical practice. Manage workload efficiently, balancing clinical duties with administrative tasks.

Essential

Desirable

Qualifications and Experience

- HCPC registered Physiotherapist
- Relevant BSc (Physiotherapy) or equivalent
- Experience in musculoskeletal assessment and management

- Postgraduate qualification in MSK Physiotherapy (e.g., MSc, PgCert)
- Experience in primary care or first contact physiotherapy settings

Knowledge and understanding

- Sound understanding of MSK conditions and treatment pathways
- Knowledge of NHS structures and primary care services
- Understanding of clinical governance and risk management

- Understanding of ARRS and PCN service delivery models
- Awareness of social prescribing and wider personalised care roles

Skills and Competencies

- Excellent assessment, diagnostic, and clinical reasoning skills
- Able to work independently and manage own caseload
- Proficient in electronic health records and NHS systems
- Effective time management and decision-making skills

- Skills in managing complex or persistent pain presentations
- Experience in audit, service evaluation or quality improvement work

Attributes

- Patient-centred, empathetic, and professional
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills
- Committed to continuous learning and development
- Adaptable and confident working in a fast-paced setting

- Willingness to support the wider MDT and contribute to service innovation
- Enthusiastic about promoting self-management and prevention strategies

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: 25.00-30.00 per hour

Expected hours: 15 per week

Work Location: In person