The implementation of post breast cancer surgery physical therapy instructions for patients―A case study of Israeli medical centers

Abstract

That patients undergoing breast cancer (BC) surgery need instruction post-surgery has been well described in the literature. Therefore, new off and online patient instructions have been developed and made available in Israel. This study aimed to evaluate the degree to which these instructions reach patients in Israeli medical centers and reasons for use or non-use. A case study. The study population were managers of physical therapy services in Israeli medical centers. Telephone interviews, using a semi structured questionnaire, were recorded and transcribed. The research team summarized and discussed the issues raised. Managers of physical therapy service or representative from 18 public medical centers were interviewed. All medical centers employ a full or part time physical therapist in their surgical wards and all except one provide some pre-discharge instructions to all or to selected women after BC surgery. Nine interviewees think that the new instruction is suitable as is. Disagreeing opinions were that the content is too long and not suitable for all patients. In medical centers with strong interdisciplinary cooperation there is greater use of the new instruction. Online distribution of instruction to the managers of the PT services in medical centers helped encourage their use. Instruction promotion can be increased through interdisciplinary cooperation, educational seminars, staff meetings and electronic media.