The physiotherapist-doctor relationship: An Ishikawa physiotherapists' perspective

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to identify attitudes and opinions about the physiotherapist-doctor relationship dyad as perceived by physiotherapists in Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan. The authors present an analysis of the responses of a sample of 176 physiotherapists to the Likert-type Physiotherapist-Doctor Relationship Scale. This scale consists of 17 statements in the context of the controversy concerning the appropriate relationship between physiotherapy and medicine. Findings of the study revealed that: 1) the respondents' view of the degree of the doctors' understanding of physiotherapy and mutual collaboration between physiotherapists and doctors was moderate; 2) the majority of the respondents wished to have lectures and short courses given by doctors; and 3) the relationship between physiotherapists and doctors becomes more collegial as the former gains professional experience. There was a tendency on the part of the respondents to perceive doctors as viewing physiotherapists foremost as technicians rather than professional colleagues. The results point to a need to strive for the ideal team that is structured, collegial and flexible, which can be achieved through academic and clinical education. Copyright © 2006 by the Society of Physical Therapy Science.