Access to treatment
Chartered physiotherapists work in a variety of settings including hospitals, health centres, GP practices, schools, work places, private clinics and also by visiting people at home.
There are 3 main treatment routes if you are resident in the United Kingdom and wish to see a physiotherapist:
Please note: it is also possible to access physiotherapy treatment through less common routes such as charities and the voluntary sector. If you do wish to see a physiotherapist for private treatment, make sure they are chartered.
Via the NHS
You will first need to make an appointment with your general practitioner (GP) and then ask to be referred to see a physiotherapist. Onward referral will be at the discretion of the GP. Contact your GP or NHS Direct for further information.
Via private practitioners
If you are in a position to pay for your own treatment, there are a large number of physiotherapists across the UK offering treatment in dedicated physiotherapy and sports injury clinics as well as many who will treat people in their own homes. To find a local private practitioner within the UK on this website, see our physio2u directory.
The Organisation of Chartered Physiotherapists in Private Practice (OCPPP), an occupational group of the CSP for private practitioners, also have a listing service of private practitioners working in the UK: see the OCPPP website for further details.
Via the independent sector
Occupational health schemes
Some large employers run occupational health schemes for their employees that may include provision for physiotherapy treatment. Check with your human resources or personnel function to see if you may be eligible.
Private medical insurance
Private medical insurance schemes for individuals through the independent healthcare sector will often include physiotherapy treatment. Check with the scheme providers for eligibility.
