What is self-referral?

Self-referral allows you to refer yourself directly to physiotherapy without having to be seen by another healthcare professional first.

Each Trust has their own self-referral pathway. The information provided here is specifically for the Northern Health and Social Care Trust.

Please note: If you reside outside of the Northern Trust area, please use the relevant self-referral form.

Who can self-refer?

You can self-refer if you are aged 16 or older, reside in the Northern Trust area, and have a neck or back problem, joint or muscle pain, or a recent injury such as a sprain or strain.

You must consult with your GP prior to self-referring if you:

• Are under the care of a consultant for the same problem
• Require a home-based appointment
• Are seeking treatment for a neurological, respiratory, obstetric, gynaecological or continence condition
• Are seeking treatment for pregnancy related pain
• Are seeking treatment for recurrent falls or headaches
• Have a red, hot, swollen joint
• Have a fever or feel unwell, or
• Have a history of cancer

It is essential that you arrange for urgent advice from your GP or attend your local emergency department immediately if you have experienced any of the symptoms below and you have not seen a doctor for these symptoms:

• A new episode or a sudden change in your ability to pass urine
• A new loss of sensation to your inner thighs, genitals or back passage area
• A new difficulty with bowel function resulting in a loss of control (soiling yourself)

How can I self-refer?

Complete the online MSK Physiotherapy self referral form to refer yourself directly to the service.

If you prefer, you can download and print a paper self-referral form, collect one from your GP practice or a Northern Trust Physiotherapy Department, and return the completed form to:

Physiotherapy Central Booking Office, Robinson Hospital, Newal Road, Ballymoney, BT53 6HH

What happens after I submit my self-referral form?

Once we receive your self-referral form, a physiotherapist will review it and decide whether you need a routine or urgent assessment. This review is usually completed within two working days.

If we need any more information, a physiotherapist may contact you using the telephone number you provided.

Your referral will then be added to the waiting list. We will contact you by letter or telephone when an appointment becomes available.

If physiotherapy is not the most suitable service for your condition, or if you need more specialised care, we will advise you on the next steps and arrange an appropriate referral where necessary.

What should I do while waiting for my first appointment?

There are steps you can take to help manage your condition while you wait for your appointment. Our physiotherapy resources offer trusted information, practical advice and guided exercises to support your recovery and wellbeing.

We encourage you to make use of these resources before your appointment. They can help you better understand your condition and may improve your symptoms.

Privacy

We will use the information you provide in your self-referral form to process your referral and manage your care.

Your personal information will be handled securely.

Read more in how we protect your personal information.

If you live outside the Northern Trust area

If you are registered with a GP in another Health and Social Care Trust area, please use the self-referral form for your local Trust:

Belfast Trust – MSK Physiotherapy Self Referral Form
South Eastern – MSK Physiotherapy Self Referral Form
Southern Trust – MSK Physiotherapy Self Referral Form
Western Trust – MSK Physiotherapy Self Referral Form