Musculoskeletal (MSK) Physiotherapy
Community Appointment Day
What are community appointment days?
Our Community Appointment Day is an event to help you discover how to manage your musculoskeletal (MSK) condition. This is your physiotherapy appointment.
It is a chance for you to discuss ‘what matters to you’ with physiotherapy staff and other specialist services.
Where are they held?
The Community Appointment Days are held in four leisure centres across Lanarkshire listed below. All events are accessible by public transport and have parking available. They are located in the sports halls which are ground floor. Reception staff, stewards and signage will help guide you on the day.
John Wright Sports Centre
Calderwood Rd
East Kilbride
G74 3EU
The Time Capsule
100 Buchanan Street
Coatbridge
ML5 1DL
Wishaw Sports Centre
131 Alexander Street
Wishaw
ML2 0HW
Carluke Leisure Centre
133 Carnwath Road
Carluke
ML8 4EA
What can I expect on the day?
When you first arrive, you will be checked in by a member of staff. You will then speak to one of our physiotherapists about the problem you are attending with, and how this affects you and your life. This is to find out ‘what matters to you’. We will then direct you to the most relevant people who can offer you advice, support, and guidance.
You will be given a ‘patient passport’ to complete on the day, and to help guide you round the hall. This passport is for your use and should be taken home as a reminder of the advice and guidance provided on the day and any options available to you afterwards. This is where you can note down what is important for you to discuss and get support on, and what advice you have been given. There is no limit to how long you can spend with us.
At the end of your session, you will meet a member of the team at our ‘check out’ desk. We will speak to you briefly about your passport and any follow up action needed. There may be various outcomes after your community appointment day, depend on your needs.
You could be:
- discharged with advice and guidance,
- advised to phone us within a certain amount of time if you need a review,
- or you could be given a follow up appointment with one of our physiotherapists.
Will I have a physiotherapy assessment?
A Physiotherapist will have the ‘what matters to you’ conversation with you at the start of your visit. You will have ample chance on the day to get general advice, rehabilitation and guidance about your condition.
If you require a Physiotherapy assessment on the day, we have assessment areas where this can be completed with one of our Physiotherapy team.
We will also have team members available to assess your current walking aid, or give you a new aid if needed. We will have a ‘Rehab/Movement Zone’ for you to try different rehabilitation exercises and techniques with the guidance of trained Physiotherapy staff.
Who else will be there?
There will be other NHS and partner services there on the day to give you advice and support if needed. These may include:
What matters to you?
Before coming along, think about the problem you have been referred for and what you want to achieve from physiotherapy and other services. Think about: what you have already done to help your condition, what you would like to do about your condition, and what support you might need to help you further.
Do I need to bring anything?
It would be useful to bring a few things with you. We would like you to bring: your invitation letter, a list of any medication you are taking, a fully charged mobile phone (if you have one), any walking aids you use and glasses if needed. It may also be useful to bring a small drink such as a bottle of water.
What do patients think?
Other frequently asked questions
How long will I be there?
You are welcome to come along for as long as you feel you need to. Patients normally spend between 30-90 minutes in the venue. The time you spend will depend on how many services you engage with.
Can I bring a family member with me?
We expect there will be a large number of people attending on the day, so we do not encourage you to take family members. If you feel you would need support or assistance to get round the event, we ask that this is limited to one family member/friend.
What should I wear?
You should wear loose, comfortable clothing that you can move easily in, and comfortable footwear such as trainers.
If your problem is with your neck or arm, please wear a vest top or t-shirt as jumpers can be bulky and restrict physiotherapy assessment if this is needed. If your problem is with your back or leg/s, if possible please wear a skirt, shorts, or loose trousers that allow you to move.
Will there be a lot of people there?
There will be a large number of people there on the day, both staff and patients. The event takes place in a large space, so we do not think it will feel over crowded. If you struggle to be in crowds, or are sensitive to noise, this event may not be suitable for you. Please contact us on our helpline below to discuss.
What if I need a private space to discuss my condition?
A private space will be available for you to discuss any sensitive matters, if required.
What happens if I don't want to attend?
You can call our booking hub and stay on the Physiotherapy waiting list as normal. You will not be disadvantaged because you do not wish to attend the event.
Who can I contact to discuss the event further?
You can phone our Helpline on 01698 687442 if you wish to discuss anything further.
This line is open Monday – Friday 9am – 3pm.
Your Feedback – comments, concerns and complaints
NHS Lanarkshire is committed to improving the service it provides to patients and their families. We therefore want to hear from you about your experience. If you would like to tell us about this please visit our feedback page.
