Abstract
Research in physiotherapy has increased rapidly over the last decade, yet studies have shown that many practice decisions continue to be based on knowledge obtained during initial physiotherapy education and/or personal experience, rather than findings from research. Both barriers and facilitators to achieving a more evidence-based practice (EBP) in physiotherapy have been identified. Leadership is a facilitator that has been recognized to have an important influence on the implementation of EBP in various settings. Our aim was to explore how physiotherapy leaders in Sweden influence the culture for implementation of evidence-based physiotherapy practice. Nine interviews with managers of physiotherapy clinics were conducted in various settings in Sweden. Data were analysed using qualitative analysis and a framework developed by Schein (Schein, 2010). Organizational Culture and Leadership (4th ed.). San Francisco, CA: Jossey-Bass) was applied. The framework identifies a number of mechanisms by which leaders can influence the culture of an organization and/or groups within an organization. The mechanisms of paying attention to, measuring and controlling on a regular basis as well as deliberate role modelling, teaching and coaching did have some relevance. However, EBP issues seemed to depend on committed individuals, often younger physiotherapists, who were interested in research. Overall, there was limited relevance for most of the embedding mechanisms. The findings suggest that physiotherapy leaders in Sweden contribute to a modest degree to establishing a culture conducive to implementation of an evidence-based physiotherapy practice.
Highlights
IntroductionNilsen 52 dence-based practice (EBP) has highlighted the need for wider use of research in many practice settings, including physiotherapy
EBP issues seemed to depend on committed individuals, often younger physiotherapists, who were interested in research
The findings suggest that physiotherapy leaders in Sweden contribute to a modest degree to establishing a culture conducive to implementation of an evidence-based physiotherapy practice
Summary
Nilsen 52 dence-based practice (EBP) has highlighted the need for wider use of research in many practice settings, including physiotherapy. EBP is typically described in terms of integrating three forms of knowledge: knowledge derived from research, knowledge based on practitioners’ experience and the patient’s values and priorities (Sackett, Rosenberg, Gray, Haynes, & Richardson, 1996). Two conceptualizations of EBP are commonly described in the literature: EBP as a critical appraisal (or decision-making) process and EBP as specific evidence-based practices (Midgley, 2009; Olsson, 2007). EBP was originally conceptualized as a process comprised of five steps: formulate an answerable question based on the patient’s problems; track down the best relevant evidence; critically appraise its validity and usefulness; integrate this appraisal with clinical practice and patients’ values and preferences; and evaluate the outcomes. The second conceptualization of EBP refers to specific practices, e.g. methods, interventions and programmes, the effectiveness of which is supported by empirical research; these practices may be recommended in guidelines produced by government agencies and professional organizations
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 
Published Version (
Free)
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call