Hand therapists report perceived differences in patient referrals from hand surgeons vs other referral sources: A survey study

Abstract

Study DesignDescriptive research. Introduction/PurposeSurvey research was performed to determine if there is a perceived difference in outcomes of patients referred to hand therapy from specialized hand surgeons vs nonspecialized physicians. MethodsThe survey was administered to members of the American Society of Hand Therapists through an electronic mailing. ResultsA total of 744 American Society of Hand Therapists members responded to the survey. Therapists reported a difference in recovery time between patients referred by a hand surgeon vs a nonspecialized physician. Sixty-seven percent (n = 490) of the respondents answered yes and 12% (n = 84) answered no. DiscussionIt is important to consider that not all hand patients receive treatment from a specialized hand surgeon and that a specialized hand therapist may be an integral team member for patients who have not received specialized care from their referral source. ConclusionMost hand therapists who responded to this survey believe that there is a difference in outcomes of patients referred to hand therapy from specialized hand surgeons vs nonspecialized physicians. Level of EvidenceLevel 3.