Evidence- based physiotherapy practice in Jordan: Evaluation and identification of implementation factors

Evidence-based physiotherapy practice (EBPTP) is becoming increasingly important to improve patient outcomes and clinical decision-making in the physiotherapy profession.

To evaluate the EBPTP in Jordan and identify the barriers to its implementation in clinical practice.

The study used a cross-sectional survey of licensed physiotherapists working in Jordan using EBPTP self-reported questionnaire. Frequencies, percentages, and one sample Wilcoxon rank test were used to evaluate the EBPTP level. The EBPTP implementation was evaluated by demographic variations of participants, Spearman's correlation, and stepwise multiple linear regression analyses at 95% confidence interval.

A total of 210 participants completed the survey. All EBPTP questionnaire elements showed significant positive levels (p = .00) except facility support reflecting non-significant negative level (p = .08). The EBPTP implementation was at a significantly lower level of uptake (p = .00). Clinical decision-making was based mainly on personal experience. The EBPTP implementation was significantly correlated with elements of the EBPTP questionnaire and differed by personal/organizational characteristics. There were four significant predictors of EBPTP implementation: understanding of EBPTP terminologies, facility support, formal training in EBPTP, and being a clinical instructor.

The findings confirm a clear gap in EBPTP implementation among physiotherapists in Jordan. The EBPTP implementation factors were mainly based on education sectors and work facilities. Engagement of stakeholders and education sectors in EBPTP implementation is required to strengthen the standing of the physiotherapy profession in Jordan.