Access to physiotherapy
Chartered physiotherapists work in a variety of settings including hospitals, health centres, private clinics, GP practices, schools, work places and also by visiting people at home.
There are three 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
Depending on where you live, 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.
A number of hospitals are now offering self-referral to physiotherapy. If your hospital is offering this service, you can make an appointment to see a physiotherapist without needing to see your GP first.
To see whether self-referral is an option for you, contact your GP or your local NHS hospital.
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, see our physio2u directory.
Physiofirst, an occupational group of the CSP for private practitioners, also has a listing service of private practitioners working in the UK.
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.
