First point of contact physiotherapy; a qualitative study

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Services Research
• Health Policy
• Physiotherapy Practice

Background:

• First point of contact physiotherapy (FPCP) allows direct patient access to physiotherapists, with demonstrated efficacy.
• Optimizing FPCP requires cultural shifts in patient and professional perspectives.
• Understanding stakeholder perceptions is crucial for effective FPCP implementation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore patient awareness and understanding of FPCP.
• To identify barriers and facilitators for FPCP implementation.
• To inform strategies for improving FPCP service delivery.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative methodology using semi-structured interviews and focus groups.
• Thematic analysis of data from patients, physiotherapists, GPs, administration staff, and commissioners.
• Utilized findings from a previous realist review to generate topic guides.

Main Results:

• Patient awareness and understanding of FPCP were found to be poor.
• Patients often perceive General Practitioners (GPs) as the default first contact practitioner.
• Patient understanding of physiotherapy is not well-aligned with the FPCP model, and access is influenced by patient characteristics and reliance on signposting.

Conclusions:

• Findings highlight obstacles to FPCP optimization, including low patient awareness and understanding.
• Improved marketing of physiotherapy and FPCP services is recommended.
• A significant cultural shift in public perception is necessary to fully realize the potential of FPCP.