Please view all of our patient advice and information to help you understand and manage your symptoms, and for guidance on when to ask for help.

Making a self-referral

If you feel that you are suffering from a musculoskeletal complaint that could benefit from Physiotherapy, you can make a direct referral to the County Durham Integrated MSK Service (CD IMS). This offers patients greater choice and faster access to hospital services without the need to visit a GP.

Make a self-referral

This service is available if:

  • You are aged 16 years and older, and
  • Registered with a GP within the North Durham, Derwentside, Durham Dales and Easington/Sedgefield area.

You can contact us by calling:  01388 455 200

Address: AHP Central Appointments, 1st floor Education Building, Bishop Auckland Hospital, Cockton Hill, DL14 6AD

First Contact Practitioner Service

You may also want to consider accessing our First Contact Practitioner Service. If you answer 'yes' to all of the following, you may be able to access the care and advice you need via your local First Contact Physiotherapy Practitioner.

  • Your joint and muscle pain started within the last 3 months
  • You are over the age of 16
  • You are able to travel to an appointment when needed.
  • You have not had recent surgery and / or not under the care of a consultant for the same problem.
  • You have not already been assessed or treated for this condition by your GP or another healthcare clincian in your GP practice.
  • you are registered at a GP practice in any of these areas - Bishop Auckland, Teesdale, Sedgefield, Easington District, Chester le Street, Derwentside

Please contact your GP practice and ask to book an initial telephone appointment with the First Contact Physiotherapist.

Find out more about our FCP service.

Additional support

It's important to us that we treat all of our patients fairly and support those who need a little extra help. If you need any assistance, please contact your local GP or get in touch with us.