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Training physiotherapists to be responsive to their clients’ health literacy needs

journal contribution
posted on 2023-05-20, 19:47 authored by Marie-Louise BirdMarie-Louise Bird, Shandell ElmerShandell Elmer, Osborne, RH, Anna FlittnerAnna Flittner, Jane O'BrienJane O'Brien
Objective:

To evaluate health literacy learning modules designed specifically for physiotherapists in private practice.

Methods:

Mixed-method design was used, evaluating pre-post physiotherapist health literacy knowledge and competencies using questionnaires and semi-structured interviews. One rural and one metropolitan private physiotherapy practice were recruited.

Participants:

Clients, physiotherapists, and other clinic staff. The OPHELIA (Optimizing Health Literacy and Access) process was applied to identify the health literacy needs of clients; co-design interventions; and implement and evaluate the interventions. The health literacy learning modules were co-designed with the physiotherapists and included one 3-h face-to-face workshop, followed by two 1-h videoconference workshops. Health literacy knowledge (rated 1-5 for 10 items, max score 50) and skills (rated 1-5 for 5 items, max score 25) were assessed before and after the workshops. Data were analyzed by paired t-test. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and thematically analyzed.

Results:

Health literacy knowledge of 19 health professionals improved after the workshop by 63% (pre 26.0 (7.5), post 41.0 (2.7), p < .001). Health literacy skills improved by 65% (pre 4.2 (3.3), post 21.8 (2.3), p < .001). We identified three themes from interview data: 1) 'the multi-faceted nature of health literacy requires multiple strategies'; 2) 'changing practice to promote understanding'; and 3) 'reflection on roles of multidisciplinary private practice.'

Practice Implications:

Improvements in health literacy knowledge and skills are possible through post-graduate professional development. Conclusion: Workshops changed physiotherapists' understanding of their role in promoting health literacy.

Funding

MAIB Injury Prevention & Management Foundation

History

Publication title

Physiotherapy Theory and Practice

ISSN

0959-3985

Department/School

School of Health Sciences

Publisher

Taylor & Francis Inc.

Place of publication

United States

Rights statement

© 2020 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC

Repository Status

  • Restricted

Socio-economic Objectives

Determinants of health; Health education and promotion

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