Decisions made by physiotherapists: a study of private practitioners in victoria

This paper addresses the kinds of decisions physiotherapists in Victoria are making about their clients, including those presenting with referral and those presenting to the physiotherapist as first contact. A survey of private practitioners provided data concerning the incidences of primary contact practice, and the source and content of medical referrals. The incidence of primary contact practice and the management of these clients is documented and discussed with respect to the physiotherapists' referral relationship with medical practitioners. Medical referrals are described and the physiotherapists' compliance with treatment prescription is discussed. Implications for optimal decision-making are discussed in relation to biassed choice.