The doctor-physiotherapist relationship: the physiotherapists' perspective

Area of Science:

• Healthcare professional relationships
• Interdisciplinary collaboration in medicine

Background:

• The evolving role of physiotherapy within healthcare.
• Ongoing debate regarding the optimal physician-physiotherapist professional dynamic.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore physiotherapists' perceptions of their professional relationship with physicians.
• To analyze satisfaction levels with physician roles in patient care teams.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of responses from a sample of physiotherapists.
• Utilized 20 closed-ended questions to gather data.

Main Results:

• Physiotherapists aim to enhance their connection with physicians.
• Dissatisfaction exists regarding physicians' performance as team leaders, consultants, and resource personnel.
• Physicians may not always be the most qualified leaders in all medical treatment scenarios.

Conclusions:

• Physiotherapists seek improved interprofessional collaboration.
• The study suggests a need to re-evaluate physician leadership roles in certain healthcare contexts.
• Potential for enhanced physiotherapy autonomy and leadership in specific patient care situations.