Professional role and autonomy in physiotherapy. A study of Swedish physiotherapists

Authors

  • B. Bergman

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.2340/1650199119907984

Abstract

A study of 163 physiotherapists' conception of their professional role and autonomy and the implications for their work has been completed. About half (55%) felt that physicians and other staff members primarily expected them to act as independent professionals, while about one-third (34%) felt that they were expected to undertake treatment after referral from or discussion with the physician. Most physiotherapists (86%) were firmly in control of their treatment methods, but had somewhat restricted freedom in deciding whom to treat, and when to terminate treatment. The majority (96%) regarded their professional tasks as being important for others. Few (14%) had carried out any systematic evaluation of their methods and results--hence few obtained any objective feedback from their work, which is believed to affect the quality of work, as well as work motivation and job satisfaction.

Downloads

Download data is not yet available.

Downloads

Published

1989-04-01

How to Cite

Bergman, B. (1989). Professional role and autonomy in physiotherapy. A study of Swedish physiotherapists. Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine, 22(2), 79–84. https://doi.org/10.2340/1650199119907984

Issue

Section

Original Report