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 three 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 standards of training and follow the HCPC rules of professional conduct. In additional, our team are also members of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy, a trade union and professional body.

With this mind our team are team are highly skilled to deal with your concerns, 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 what is 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 treatment for a day and time that is convenient for yourself.

How long do appointments last?

Every new patient will complete an initial consultation that is 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 any 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 the problem you are experiencing as well as considering the main impact/s of your problem on your day-to-day life.

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

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

Unfortunately, your Physiotherapist will be unable to conduct the session if you are driving.

How do I change/cancel my appointment?

This can be done via the app or 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 be led by the Physiotherapist, but we are able to treat patients for up to six sessions per condition.

How long should I wait between appointments?

This will vary depending on your own personal condition and treatment plan. Your physiotherapist will be able to offer you advice about when you should book in for future appointments. Typically, this will often be between 1-2 weeks.

Do I need to see a GP first?

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

Will I need a scan?

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

If it is deemed appropriate to see a specialist (e.g. 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?

A email link to access your exercise program via Physitrack will be sent to the patient immediately following their initial consultation. Access to the portal will depend on the length treatment and post treatment advice. In most cases an ongoing preventative program will be provided to the patient.