Public physiotherapy in the Valencian Community is not accessed by asking reception for a block of sessions. It starts with a clinical assessment: a professional identifies the problem, establishes whether treatment is indicated and decides whether it can be managed through basic primary-care rehabilitation or requires specialist assessment and follow-up.
The common National Health System portfolio includes prevention of musculoskeletal disorders in primary care, symptom control and functional improvement for chronic conditions, recovery from mild acute musculoskeletal problems, certain neurological disorders and respiratory physiotherapy. It also covers education for patients or carers and, where clinical circumstances or access limitations justify it, home care.
This does not mean every pain problem qualifies automatically or that a fixed number of sessions applies. Treatment is matched to the diagnosis, functional impairment, achievable goals and programmes organised by each health department. It may include supervised exercise, education, home routines, individual or group treatment and reviews; continuation depends on progress and clinical judgement.
Where the condition exceeds primary care capacity, specialist services cover assessment and rehabilitation for functional impairments related to musculoskeletal, neurological, cardiovascular or respiratory conditions. Care may include physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy linked to the condition being treated and orthotic or prosthetic products when indicated. A referral does not mean treatment begins that day: a rehabilitation consultation may first define the plan.
The exact route varies by department. Some health centres have their own physiotherapy units or professionals, while others coordinate with the hospital rehabilitation service. For an injury, persistent pain or loss of mobility, the relevant contact is therefore the GP, paediatrician or specialist managing the condition—not a private clinic in the expectation that public healthcare will reimburse it later.
After surgery or admission, the hospital may prescribe continued rehabilitation in the discharge report. If it is absent or functional needs change, the responsible team should reassess. Bringing reports, recent tests and a concrete account of limitations—walking, dressing, breathing, working or self-care—helps determine priority and the appropriate resource, but does not replace examination.
The public portfolio aims to restore, maintain or improve independence. It does not cover general exercise, wellbeing massage or treatment unrelated to a condition managed by the system. If waiting clearly worsens function, new symptoms appear or prescribed activities become impossible, the proper step is a further clinical assessment so priority can be reviewed, not a duplicate self-request for sessions.