An exploration of stakeholder perceptions of physiotherapists undertaking community advanced clinical practice roles

Background:

Advanced clinical practitioners (ACPs) with a physiotherapy background undertake a range of activities in the community setting. Since this is a novel role for physiotherapists, there is a paucity of literature related to physiotherapists working as ACPs in the community.

Aim:

This study explored stakeholders' perceptions of physiotherapists undertaking such roles in the community.

Methods:

A qualitative approach, using semi-structured interviews, was conducted involving a total of eight participants, including ACPs, GPs and advanced clinical practice managers. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to analyse the data.

Findings:

Both benefits and challenges of physiotherapists undertaking advanced clinical practice roles were identified. The benefits included improving the patient journey and an opportunity for career progression. However, prescribing was identified as a challenge and a barrier to the physiotherapist's role as an ACP.

Conclusions:

Further research is needed into physiotherapists and other allied health professionals undertaking advanced clinical practice roles. There is an opportunity for NHS organisations and academic institutions to address uncertainties that may deter future physiotherapists considering this role.

Implications for practice:

This study provides an insight into the novel role a physiotherapist ACP can undertake in a community setting and offers understanding around the benefits and challenges that individuals and organisations face when physiotherapists undertake these roles.