FAQs: Virtual Physiotherapy appointments

Our virtual Physiotherapy service offers quick, easy access to a highly qualified Physiotherapist via a video link without needing a GP referral. Here are some FAQs around the service:

What does a Physiotherapist do?

A Physiotherapist is a healthcare professional who specialises in the assessment and management of patients who present with injury, illness or disability.

Physiotherapists work holistically with patients combining fitness and emotional wellbeing for longer term improvements in pain, reduce disease and improve function. This is all done with the patient at the centre of their care, working towards your goals and facilitating the return to your normal activities.

I am unsure if Physiotherapy will help with my problem?

All of our Physiotherapists have at least a minimum of five years post graduate experience. Our Physiotherapists are also registered and regulated by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). This means they have completed approved training standards and follow the HCPC rules of professional conduct. In addition, our team is also a member of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy, a trade union and professional body.

With this in mind, our team is highly skilled in dealing with your concerns and, if deemed appropriate, can facilitate an onward referral to the appropriate medical professional to assist you further.

How do I book an appointment?

Should you require the expertise of a Physiotherapist, Patients can request an appointment through the app/portal/phone 24/7. Each patient will receive a pre-consultation questionnaire and can book an appointment 24/7. Appointment times are available Monday – Friday, 9:00 – 5:30 pm, excluding public holidays.

Following your initial consultation, your Physiotherapist will determine the most appropriate course of treatment for you. If this is a continued course of Physiotherapy, you’ll be provided a link to book a follow-up treatment for a day and time that is convenient for you.

How long do appointments last?

Every new patient will complete an initial consultation scheduled for up to 45 minutes with a Physiotherapist.

Any follow-up sessions with a Physiotherapist are scheduled for 30 minutes.

Is there anything I need in preparation for my appointment?

An up-to-date list of any medications you take will be helpful for the Physiotherapist. If you have details of any past or ongoing health conditions, investigations, or treatments, please also keep these to hand.

You may find it useful to jot down any questions you have about your problem and consider its main impact on your day-to-day life.

Your Physiotherapist will likely ask you to conduct some tests and movements during your session. With this in mind, it is worth considering wearing something suitable and ensuring you have a quiet space with room to move freely.

As the appointment is via video using our telemedicine platform, ensuring you have a good internet connection is worth ensuring.

Unfortunately, your Physiotherapist cannot conduct the session if you are driving.

How do I change/cancel my appointment?

This can be done via the app or by contacting our customer support team.

What is the cancellation policy?

Please, where possible, provide 24 hours’ notice should you need to cancel your appointment.

How many sessions do I need?

This will depend on your clinical presentation and will be led by the physiotherapist following your initial consultation.

How long should I wait between appointments?

This will vary depending on your condition and treatment plan. Your physiotherapist can offer you advice about when you should book future appointments. Typically, this will be between 1 and 2 weeks.

Do I need to see a GP first?

No, you can access a Virtual Physiotherapy appointment without a referral from a GP.

Will I need a scan?

You won’t need a scan before attending a session with one of our Physiotherapists.

If it is deemed appropriate to see a specialist (e.g., an orthopaedic surgeon), you would first need to see a GP. If the patient would like a private referral, this can be done through the Teladoc GP service. If the patient requires assessment by an NHS specialist, however, they will first need to see their NHS GP to obtain an NHS referral.

How do I access my exercise program?

The patient will receive an email link to access their exercise program immediately following their initial consultation. Access to the portal will depend on the length of treatment and post-treatment advice. In most cases, an ongoing preventative program will be provided to the patient.