Patients in Birmingham are set to benefit from the introduction of a new self-referral scheme for physiotherapy, meaning patients can make an appointment with a physiotherapist without having to see a GP first.

The scheme will help deliver a more efficient and streamlined service for patients, reducing waiting times and ensuring patients receive access to the treatment they require as soon as possible. Physiotherapy can help with a range of aches and pains, including arthritis, sports injuries, ligament sprains, muscle strains and post-surgical rehabilitation.

Julie Hunter, therapy lead for planned care at the Heart of England NHS Foundation Trust, said: “Patients can either arrange an appointment via phone or by completing one of our physiotherapy self-referral forms, which can be obtained from any of our physiotherapy departments or from most local GP practices. Once the form has been received, we will decide the best course of treatment and an appointment will be confirmed.

“Following the first appointment, we will help you understand your condition and work in partnership with you to develop a treatment plan that considers general health and fitness levels and your lifestyle.

“We would ask that while patients are free to make the most of our new scheme, a GP referral is still required for neurological, paediatric, respiratory and women’s health conditions, plus any patients requiring a home visit.”

To book an appointment at Heartlands Hospital call 0121 424 0493, for Solihull Hospital call 0121 424 5446, for Solihull Community Musculoskeletal Service call 0121 329 0107 and for Good Hope Hospital call 0121 424 9053.