Physiotherapists’ and occupational therapists’ experiences with cross-sectoral coordination of rehabilitation for people with mild stroke – a qualitative interview study

Abstract

Purpose To meet the needs of people with mild stroke, multidisciplinary, person-centred, cross-sectoral rehabilitation is internationally recommended. However, there seem to be gaps in the rehabilitation process. The aim of this study was to investigate how occupational therapists and physiotherapists experience working in cross-sectoral rehabilitation for people with mild stroke. Materials and methods Data were generated through interviews with occupational therapists and physiotherapists working in four different Danish rehabilitation settings. Four group interviews and two individual interviews with a total of 19 participants were conducted. Ricoeur’s theory of interpretation was used to interpret and discuss the data. Results Four themes were identified: the risk of overlooking symptoms: better safe than sorry; varying degrees of involvement of people with mild stroke; spontaneous involvement of relatives; and contextual challenges for coherence in the rehabilitation process. Conclusion The therapists experienced challenges in coordinating rehabilitation across sectors due to the timing of the needs assessment and contextual challenges. They used a preventive strategy of sending a plan or referral for later re-assessment. The therapists involved people with mild stroke to varying degrees. They involved relatives spontaneously. For successful rehabilitation, ongoing assessment, recognition of collaboration factors and relative involvement are essential.