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Advanced practice physiotherapists in primary health care: stakeholders' views of a new scope of practice.

Authors :
Stotter, Gill
McKinlay, Eileen
Darlow, Ben
Source :
Journal of Primary Health Care; Jun2024, Vol. 16 Issue 2, p160-169, 10p
Publication Year :
2024

Abstract

Introduction. Advanced and extended primary health care practice roles have been developed in Aotearoa New Zealand (NZ) for dietetics, nursing, pharmacy, and physiotherapy professions. Advanced musculoskeletal physiotherapy roles in primary health care could address escalating health care costs, challenges to workforce sustainability and inefficient primary/secondary care interfaces. Little is known about how stakeholders perceive the recently introduced Advanced Practice Physiotherapist (APP) scope of practice. Aim. This study aimed to explore health professionals' perceptions of the APP scope of practice in NZ and how APPs could influence physiotherapy service delivery for people with musculoskeletal conditions in primary health care. Methods. Qualitative, face-to-face, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 participants including physiotherapists, general practitioners, medical specialists and Accident Compensation Corporation case managers. Inductive interpretive analysis was undertaken. Results. Five themes were identified: perceptions of current musculoskeletal management in primary health care; lack of a career pathway; ways in which APPs might facilitate change and what their role would be; characteristics of an APP; and the implementation of the APP role into practice. Discussion. Stakeholders were supportive of the APP scope of practice and thought it has the potential to improve patient pathways, health care delivery and health outcomes for those with musculoskeletal conditions. Stakeholders also thought it would fill an important gap in the physiotherapy clinical career pathway. Successful implementation will require assessment of applicants' personal attributes as well as clinical experience and academic qualifications to ensure all stakeholders have confidence to engage with the service, clear communication, active promotion and specific funding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
11726164
Volume :
16
Issue :
2
Database :
Complementary Index
Journal :
Journal of Primary Health Care
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
178202010
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1071/HC24029