The advanced physiotherapy practitioner role explained
Discover Sam’s journey to becoming an advanced physiotherapy practitioner (APP) at Practice Plus Group.
Sam Cheffins started his career at Practice Plus Group MSK & Spinal Service in Lincolnshire over five years ago. Since qualifying as a physiotherapist in 2010, Sam’s career has spanned various roles, including positions at London teaching hospitals, private practice, and working with sports teams. Additionally, Sam has completed post-graduate qualifications in imaging interpretation and injection therapy, significantly enhancing his expertise and clinical capabilities.
In an interview, Sam shared his journey to becoming and being an advanced physiotherapy practitioner at Practice Plus Group.
How did I became an advanced physiotherapy practitioner?
Sam shares: “Becoming an advanced physiotherapy practitioner (APP) was a pivotal step in my career. I undertook 18 months of comprehensive internal and external training to transition from a senior physiotherapist to an APP.
The mentorship and support from Practice Plus Group and the consultant physiotherapist within our service was instrumental in my professional development. This guidance was critical in helping me achieve my APP status, equipping me with the advanced skills and knowledge necessary for this role.”
What does an advanced physiotherapy practitioner do?
“As an advanced physiotherapy practitioner, my primary responsibility is to collaborate with patients to determine the most effective management plan for their presenting problems. This involves:
- Comprehensive Patient Assessments: Listening to patient histories, asking relevant questions, and conducting thorough physical assessments to diagnose and decide the best course of action.
- Personalised Management Plans: Offering advice on physical activity and lifestyle modifications, referring patients to physiotherapy, and ordering further investigations like x-rays, MRIs, or ultrasound scans.
- Advanced Treatment Options: Administering injection therapy, and if necessary, referring patients to specialists in secondary care, such as Orthopaedics, Rheumatology, or pain services.
Apart from these, another essential element is ‘patient empowerment.’ A cornerstone of my practice is patient education. I place a great emphasis on education and explanation of their condition in order to help the patient understand the nature of their problem. Doing this allows them to fully participate in managing and improving their symptoms.
One of the most rewarding aspects of my role as an APP is the problem-solving nature of the job. Each day presents a variety of challenges that require innovative and effective solutions. Additionally, I find great satisfaction in meeting and helping a diverse range of patients, contributing to their well-being and seeing their progress over time.”
Join our team
If you are passionate about advancing your physiotherapy career and making a real difference in patients’ lives, consider joining Practice Plus Group. We offer a supportive environment that allows you to thrive both personally and professionally while delivering exceptional patient care.
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