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<br /><p>The Department has not undertaken a review of NHS physiotherapy service provision.
However, scoping work has started regarding the ability for patients to self-refer
to musculoskeletal physiotherapy within primary care.</p><br /><p>The provision of
physiotherapy, as for all health services is decided by local clinical commissioning
groups (CCGs) and it will take into account the needs of the population overall. The
CCG’s decisions are underpinned by clinical insight and knowledge of local healthcare
needs. As such, provision of services will vary in response to local needs.</p><br
/><p>As defined in the NHS Constitution, patients have the right to expect to be seen
and treated within national operational standards ensuing timely diagnosis and treatment,
equality of care and patient choice.</p><br /><p>The 18 weeks commitment is a universal
right. This commitment should be delivered for every patient, in every specialty and
in every organisation unless the patient chooses otherwise or it is not in their best
clinical interest.</p><br /><p>In June this year, NHS England, Monitor and the Trust
Development Authority jointly wrote to CCG Accountable Officers and Clinical Leaders
and Chief Executives of NHS Providers setting out the changes to the Referral to Treatment
operational standards and reporting arrangements. A copy of that letter, which outlines
the changes in more detail, is attached.</p>
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