Elliot joined HCML as a rehabilitation case manager, bringing over a decade of experience of helping those requiring musculoskeletal treatment.
Tell us a bit more about your career journey so far.
I qualified as a physiotherapist 10 years ago. Right from the beginning I knew I wanted to specialise in musculoskeletal (MSK) physiotherapy, treating injuries such as muscle tears, ligament damage and fractures. After qualifying I went straight into private practice, getting as much hands-on experience as I could. From there I went to the NHS where I worked as a First Contact Practitioner (FCP) in GP surgeries, focusing on helping patients with musculoskeletal issues.
Over time I have built up my experience, working with a wide range of patients and developing my clinical skills. More recently, I set up my own private practice before joining HCML as a case manager.
Transitioning into case management felt like a natural next step, allowing me to use my clinical background in a more holistic way, supporting clients over a longer period and helping them navigate their recovery journey.
What is your main area of expertise?
My main specialism is orthopaedic injuries. I work with clients who have experienced complex polytrauma, often following road traffic accidents, as well as those dealing with persistent pain.
Can you share an example of a complex case you’ve worked on?
I recently worked with a delivery driver who had sustained significant leg injuries in an accident. After leaving hospital he was unable to work, struggled financially and faced a number of challenges beyond his physical injuries.
Despite this, he remained incredibly positive and motivated to recover from his injuries, overcome his challenges and get back to normal. Cases like this highlight how rehabilitation goes far beyond physical recovery. It’s about working together with the client to ascertain what their goals and expectations are and supporting the whole person. I can help them access the right services, build stability and regain their independence.
What key skills are needed to be a successful case manager?
Listening is one of the most important skills. It’s essential to understand what truly matters to each client, and sometimes that means reading between the lines.
You also need to be able to think outside the box. Clients aren’t always aware of what support or resources are available to them, so part of the role is identifying opportunities and suggesting solutions they may not have considered.
Strong communication skills are equally important. As a case manager, you’re coordinating between multiple parties from clients and their families, therapists, specialists and legal representatives. Being able to bring everyone together and ensure a shared understanding is crucial.
Finally, adaptability is key. In this role no two cases are the same. Each client brings a unique set of physical, psychological and social factors to consider, which means every rehabilitation plan needs to be tailored to the individual.
What attracted you to HCML?
There is a strong emphasis on genuinely supporting clients with a focus on finding ways to getting them back to as good a health as possible. Since joining I’ve been particularly impressed by the level of collaboration and support. There is a strong team environment, with regular opportunities to share knowledge and learn from colleagues with different specialisms. Working alongside professionals from different clinical backgrounds means I’m constantly gaining new insights and expanding my knowledge to be able to support my clients in the best way.
What do you enjoy most about your role as a case manager?
The most rewarding aspect is seeing clients progress over time. Often in physiotherapy you might only work with someone for short period of time, whereas case management allows you to support clients through a much longer journey. You’re able to see improvements not just in their physical health, but across all areas of their life from mental wellbeing, work, relationships and building independence.
What has been your greatest achievement so far?
Becoming a First Contact Practitioner early on in my career was a significant milestone. It’s a role that requires a high level of clinical reasoning and confidence and it pushed me to develop my skills quickly.
I also take a lot of pride in the positive feedback I receive from patients and colleagues, particularly in how I approach patient care and communication. Being able to see the improvements in someone and watch them get back to the things they enjoy is a real privilege.
What do you enjoy doing outside of work?
I like to stay active and spend as much time outdoors as possible with my partner and our dog. I’ve played water polo since I was young and also enjoy squash and climbing. Growing up near the Lake District also gave me an appreciation for hiking and I’ll often travel to places like Wales to find a mountain to climb.
If you’d like to find out more about Elliot’s experience and expertise, and enquire about his availability, please email NOI@hcml.co.uk.