Variation in the provision of cardiothoracic physiotherapy in Australian hospitals

The chief physiotherapists of 47 Australian metropolitan public hospitals were asked about the hours of provision and organisation of cardiothoracic physiotherapy services. Forty three per cent provided physiotherapy services only during the day, 12 per cent during the day and evening, and 45 per cent provided 24-hour coverage. Variation among the states was found in the provision of cardiothoracic physiotherapy. Most hospitals which provided 24-hour coverage used on-call. Thirty three per cent of hospitals rostered staff to work during the evening and only 7 per cent had rostered night shifts. Differences could not be attributed to variations in hospital size. The implications of these findings for the physiotherapy profession and patient care are discussed and the need for further research highlighted.