Transforming MSK Care in Primary Care Settings
- At HealthPlus, we are a UK-based provider of First Contact Physiotherapy (FCP) services dedicated to optimising MSK care and improving patient pathways across Primary Care Networks (PCNs) and GP surgeries.
- MSK conditions make up 14%–30% of GP consultations, often leading to delays in care and pressure on general practice. Our FCP service addresses this challenge head-on—delivering rapid access to expert MSK clinicians, reducing GP workload, and improving patient outcomes.
Our Mission
To deliver high-quality, accessible, and patient-centered MSK care directly within primary care—improving clinical outcomes, reducing unnecessary referrals, and enhancing system efficiency.
Our Vision
To be a leader in shaping a healthcare system where expert MSK care is easily accessible within every community, We are committed to delivering outstanding care, empowering individuals to take charge of their health, and building a stronger, more sustainable future for all.
What is a First Contact Physiotherapist (FCP)?
FCPs are highly trained, advanced practitioners working in primary care who:
- See patients with MSK concerns without the need for a GP appointment
- Offer clinical assessment, diagnosis, and management of MSK issues
- Provide timely advice, investigations, and referrals where needed
References:
Downie et al doi: 10.3399/bjgp19X702245. Epub 2019 Apr 8. PMID: 30962224; PMCID: PMC6478452
Proven Impact (NHS England FCP Evaluation, 2020)
- 95% of patients did not require a GP follow-up
- 98% confidence in FCP competency
- 93% received sufficient MSK information
- 54% reported health improvement at 3 months
- 54% noted improved work performance
Meet Our Director
Nihar Palan
M.P.Th., MCSP, MAPPN, PgCert MSK USS
Director, HealthPlus | Advanced Practice Physiotherapist | FCP Supervisor | MSK Sonographer | Clinical Educator
Nihar Palan brings over 18 years of diverse clinical experience in musculoskeletal physiotherapy, both internationally and within the UK NHS. As the founder and clinical lead of HealthPlus, he is
passionate about improving access to high-quality, patient-centred MSK care in primary care settings.
Nihar’s career began in India, where he earned his Master’s in Musculoskeletal and Sports Physiotherapy and worked extensively with elite athletes, including state cricket teams. His early exposure to high-performance rehabilitation laid a strong foundation in injury prevention, manual therapy, and functional recovery.
Since relocating to the UK, Nihar has worked across NHS primary care and community MSK interface services. He currently practices as an Advanced Practice Physiotherapist and First Contact Practitioner (FCP), offering expert clinical assessment, diagnostics, and treatment for a wide range of MSK conditions.
His skillset includes:
- Diagnostic MSK ultrasound
- Ultrasound-guided corticosteroid injections
- Timely identification and appropriate management / referral of inflammatory conditions
- Chronic pain management, including CBT- and ACT-informed approaches
- Triage and onward referral to orthopaedic, rheumatology, or imaging services
- As a qualified FCP supervisor, Nihar also mentors physiotherapists undertaking the FCP roadmap, supporting the development of future primary care clinicians. He works closely with PCNs and multidisciplinary teams to deliver safe, effective, and timely MSK care.
Nihar’s vision is rooted in health equity, prevention, and empowering patients through shared decision-making. His leadership reflects a commitment to evidence-based practice, collaboration, and improving outcomes across primary care.
Meet Our Director
Nihar Palan
M.P.Th., MCSP, MAPPN, PgCert MSK USS
Director, HealthPlus | Advanced Practice Physiotherapist | FCP Supervisor | MSK Sonographer |Clinical Educator
Nihar Palan brings over 18 years of diverse clinical experience in musculoskeletal physiotherapy,both internationally and within the UK NHS. As the founder and clinical lead of HealthPlus, he is passionate about improving access to high-quality, patient-centred MSK care in primary care settings.
Nihar’s career began in India, where he earned his Master’s in Musculoskeletal and Sports Physiotherapy and worked extensively with elite athletes, including state cricket teams. His early exposure to high-performance rehabilitation laid a strong foundation in injury prevention, manual therapy, and functional recovery.
Since relocating to the UK, Nihar has worked across NHS primary care and community MSK interface services. He currently practices as an Advanced Practice Physiotherapist and First Contact Practitioner (FCP), offering expert clinical assessment, diagnostics, and treatment for a wide range of MSK conditions.
His skillset includes:
- Diagnostic MSK ultrasound
- Ultrasound-guided corticosteroid injections
- Timely identification and appropriate management / referral of inflammatory conditions
- Chronic pain management, including CBT- and ACT-informed approaches
- Triage and onward referral to orthopaedic, rheumatology, or imaging services
As a qualified FCP supervisor, Nihar also mentors physiotherapists undertaking the FCP roadmap, supporting the development of future primary care clinicians. He works closely with PCNs and multidisciplinary teams to deliver safe, effective, and timely MSK care.
Nihar’s vision is rooted in health equity, prevention, and empowering patients through shared decision-making. His leadership reflects a commitment to evidence-based practice, collaboration, and improving outcomes across primary care.
"Satisfied Patients"
"Empowering patients with relief, recovery, and a return to an active life."
Year of Experience
Satisfied Patients
Let’s Collaborate
We’re currently partnering with PCNs and surgeries across the UK to implement high-quality FCP services.
Let’s talk about how we can help your team deliver better MSK care.
We’re here to help
Let’s create something great together.
Optimising Musculoskeletal care and patient pathways. Let’s connect and collaborate
Nihar Palan
Director