Practitioner experiences from the structured implementation of evidence-based practice in primary care physiotherapy:...

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Implementation Science
• Evidence-Based Practice in Physiotherapy
• Primary Health Care Interventions

Background:

• Effective interventions are crucial for quality primary health care (PHC).
• Implementing evidence-based practices in PHC presents challenges.
• A structured strategy was used to implement an evidence-based program for subacromial pain in PHC.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore physiotherapists' experiences implementing an evidence-based subacromial pain program.
• To understand practitioner perspectives on the implementation process and outcomes.
• To inform future strategies for implementing evidence-based practices.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative design utilizing focus group discussions.
• 16 physiotherapists in the target group participated.
• Data analyzed using qualitative content analysis.

Main Results:

• The implementation strategy and program were positively received.
• Physiotherapists reported adopting the program, changed behaviors, and increased confidence.
• Patient- and provider-related challenges were identified.

Conclusions:

• Physiotherapists' experiences with the implementation were largely positive.
• Collaboration between academia and practice, with supportive teams, drove practice changes.
• Concerns included interprofessional collaboration and the program's narrow focus on shoulder function.