How Does an FCP Model Work with PCN’s?

In order to support PCNs, The Additional Roles Reimbursement Scheme (ARRS) was introduced in England in 2019. This scheme provides funding for 26,000 additional roles to support recruitment for general practices. This scheme provides reimbursement for PCNs to develop their workforce capacity, and this is expected to increase to £891 million in 2023/24. ARRS was created to provide financial reimbursement for PCNs to progress their workforce.

First Contact Practitioners will liaise with colleagues within a PCN team. FCPs are responsible for integrating as a part of a diverse team and developing effective clinical pathways. They will need to demonstrate that they are following Health Education England’s Roadmap to Practice, and they should try and develop links with wider MSK services to help create partnerships in the community.

The FCPs are responsible for assessing, diagnosing, and treating a range of MSK conditions. FCPs provide treatment to help encourage lifestyle and behavioural change, improve mobility, and independence. The Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) hold FCPs accountable for all patient care and this ensures they adhere to the rules and regulations of the council. HCPC sets professional standards, approves programmes and keeps a register of professionals.

FCPs will manage complex caseloads and patients with minor or chronic conditions. Each caseload the FCPs deal with will be different, and they will have to understand how to cope and adjust to patient needs. Their professional judgement is paramount to making decisions that benefit the patient. The FCPs will be able to refer patients for X-rays and blood tests, and will be able to customise a patient’s treatment plan depending on their needs. This could include self-management, face-to-face treatment or exercise classes.