Booking staff can collect useful information before the first visit, but they should not diagnose the patient or guarantee a rehabilitation result by phone or WhatsApp. The first clinical assessment is where the physiotherapist decides whether the presentation is suitable for physiotherapy, which findings matter, whether precautions are required and whether another professional should be involved.
Can be discussed before bookingLocation, preferred time, basic diagnosis if already known, mobility level, recent surgery or stroke, therapist-gender preference, available medical reports and whether urgent warning symptoms are present.
Usually requires assessmentThe exact treatment plan, exercise selection, hands-on techniques, treatment frequency, progression criteria, functional goals and whether portable equipment is clinically useful.
Should not be guaranteedComplete recovery, permanent pain relief, exact number of sessions, a fixed date for independent walking after stroke, or a promise that surgery or medication will never be needed.