How do physiotherapists perceive their role in work ability assessments? A prospective focus group study

Area of Science:

• Occupational health
• Rehabilitation medicine
• Primary health care

Background:

• Work ability assessments are crucial for healthcare and sick leave decisions.
• Professional interpretations and assessment methods for work ability lack consensus.
• Physiotherapists (PTs) play a role in evaluating patient work capacity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore experienced physiotherapists' (PTs) perceptions of their professional role in work ability assessments within primary health care (PHC).
• To understand the 14-month professional development of PTs regarding work ability evaluations.

Main Methods:

• A prospective focus group study was conducted.
• Qualitative content analysis was applied to the collected data.

Main Results:

• PTs identified a need to emphasize their role in work ability assessments within PHC and with other professionals.
• PTs recognized the value of frequent patient contact for assessing and facilitating work ability.
• PTs became more proactive in work ability matters, seeking greater responsibility and improved communication with physicians and patients.

Conclusions:

• PTs' enhanced understanding and training improved their confidence and preparedness for work ability assessments.
• Reflective practice and further education were key to PTs taking a more significant role in evaluating patients' capacity for work.
• PTs demonstrated a capacity to contribute significantly to structured work ability assessments, benefiting both themselves and patients.