The Potential Benefits of Physiotherapy in the Emergency Department: Views of Patients and Healthcare Professionals

Outpatient emergency consultations due to musculoskeletal (MSK) complaints are increasing in Swiss hospitals. In some countries, physiotherapy (PT) is already incorporated into patient care in emergency departments (EDs). The aim of this qualitative study was to investigate the perspectives of patients and healthcare professionals (HCPs) on the potential involvement of PT in the ED of a regional acute hospital. A total of seven individual interviews with patients with MSK complaints and one focus group interview with five HCPs from the ED of a Swiss regional acute hospital were conducted. Semi-structured literature-based guidelines were used to analyse the experience of treatment in the ED and assess the potential of PT in ED. The data was thematically analysed according to Braun & Clarke (2006). Patients and HCPs see the role of PT in the ED primarily in patient education. Patients expressed a need for information about diagnosis, prognosis, and self-management. HCPs emphasised the added value of PT’s MSK expertise and discussed new perspectives for the profession. An agile approach to PT, potentially improved quality of care and patient satisfaction, as well as concerns about PT without a medical diagnosis, were emphasised. Four of the five HCPs would actively participate in the involvement of PT. According to patients and HCPs, the potential involvement of PT in the ED could counteract a gap in patient education. They see opportunities using PT expertise, agile work deployment, potential relief for the emergency team, increased quality of care, and patient satisfaction. Challenges such as clarifying the indication and concerns about PT without a medical diagnosis are important aspects of involvement. Evaluating a PT service in a regional acute hospital would be desirable.