Who governs physiotherapists?

Under current law anyone is able to call him or herself a physiotherapist. This means that it is particularly important to make sure that any physiotherapist you visit is Chartered and State Registered

The Organisation of Chartered Physiotherapists in Private Practice (OCPPP) is an occupational group of the "Chartered Society of Physiotherapy". The OCPPP has over 3,300 members and has a trading name "PhysioFirst".

All Chartered Physiotherapists are bound by the Chartered Society's "Rules of Professional Conduct" and "Standards of Physiotherapy Practice", regardless of whether they work within the public or private sector.

What can I expect when visiting a Chartered Physiotherapist in Private Practice

The Physiotherapist will first take a detailed history of your condition together with any relevant past medical history.

A physical assessment will then be undertaken to determine the clinical diagnosis of your problem. The physiotherapist will discuss with you a proposed treatment plan and will give you an estimate as to the length of treatment required and the proposed outcome of your treatment.

The initial assessment and subsequent treatment sessions will last between thirty minutes to one hour.

Every opportunity will be given to you to ask questions about your condition and advice regarding its management and prevention in the future.

Do I have to be referred by a doctor?

No, not necessarily. However, Chartered Physiotherapists do liaise closely with other members of the medical profession and contact will usually be maintained with your G.P.

Can I claim on my medical insurance?

Most health schemes provide reimbursement of fees for physiotherapy. However, these may vary from scheme to scheme.

For further information, please telephone 01937 844199.