Did you know you can self refer to see a physiotherapist in a clinic for assessment of any joint or muscle pain or back pain without seeing your GP?
You are now able to access physiotherapy assessment directly rather than first seeing your GP if you have a musculoskeletal problem. From this brief assessment the physiotherapist will identify if you:
- need to be placed on the waiting list for full physiotherapy assessment and treatment
- need to see your GP for further investigation or referral to another health care team
- can be given reassurance and quick exercises to manage by yourself
- have a muscle or joint problem (for example, neck or back pain, shoulder or knee problems, “tennis elbow” or ankle sprain)
- who are able to attend outpatient physiotherapy
- are registered with a Torfaen, Blaenau Gwent or North Monmouthshire GP practice
How does the self referral work?
You will need to complete a form at https://www.smartsurvey.co.uk/s/physioref/ prior to any assessment. This form asks specific questions about:
- your problem and what makes it better or worse
- your past medical history
- your current medication – please bring details of any medication you take
If you do not feel comfortable to do this yourself, please bring someone who can help you or visit your GP instead to obtain a physiotherapy referral. The staff will not be able to help you complete the form.
Exclusions from the clinics
A referral from your GP or hospital consultant will still be required for physiotherapy assessment if:
- you are between 16-18 years old and under the care of a hospital consultant
*if you are between 16 and 18 years of age and are not under the care of a hospital consultant, please attend your appointment with a parent or person with parental responsibility
- you require a visit to your home
- you require physiotherapy treatment due to problems with breathing
- you require physiotherapy treatment due to a neurological problem e.g. following a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease or multiple sclerosis
- you have a complex background to your condition i.e. if you have multiple symptoms or have been diagnosed with persistent or chronic pain
- you are unable to supply information about your own health
These referrals will be sent to the main physiotherapy department in the usual manner and do not require you to attend the drop in service.
Please see your GP for assessment if your condition is related to:
- problems with going to the toilet to pass urine or not getting to the toilet in time
- any numbness between your legs or around your bottom that is linked to back pain and is a new symptom
- unexplained weight loss
- multiple joint problems
or
- if you have had previous physiotherapy for the same condition with little or no improvement
- if you require supply or replacement of wrist splints and collars
- if you require provision of reports for insurance, assessment of disability benefits or fit note
