Expanded role for the physical therapist. Screening musculoskeletal disorders

Area of Science:

• Physical Therapy
• Musculoskeletal Disorders
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• Low back pain is a common condition requiring efficient patient management.
• Current screening processes may lead to delays in care for low back pain patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility of using physical therapists as the primary screeners for low back pain patients.
• To assess the impact of this screening model on patient care times and satisfaction.

Main Methods:

• A two-phase study was conducted at two army hospitals.
• Data on patient waiting, treatment, and total care times were collected during baseline and screening phases.
• Patient and physician satisfaction, acceptance, and quality of care were assessed via interviews and record reviews.

Main Results:

• The physical therapist-led screening model was feasible in the army hospital setting.
• Patient waiting times, treatment times, and total care times were measured.
• The screening approach was found to be acceptable to patients, physicians, and physical therapists.

Conclusions:

• Physical therapists can serve as effective primary screeners for low back pain.
• This model demonstrates acceptability and feasibility within a military healthcare system.
• Implementing physical therapist-led screening may optimize care delivery for low back pain.