Views of physiotherapists from a low resource setting about physiotherapy at a distance: a qualitative study

Abstract

Objective: This study was designed to explore the perceptions of Nigerian physiotherapists about tele-physiotherapy.Methods: Focus group discussions (FGDs) were used to collect data. Two FGDs, involving six purposively selected physiotherapists from health institutions in Ibadan, Nigeria were conducted. The FGD was moderated using a focus guide and probes were used until data reached a point of saturation. Data were analysed using thematic content analysis.Results: Four themes (Knowledge, sources of information, feedback and usability and benefits) were generated. Participants reported that tele-physiotherapy is similar to telemedicine and it involves the use of modern communication facilities. Their sources of information were majorly from seminars, colleagues and published scientific articles. They reported that tele-physiotherapy helps to improve access to healthcare services especially in circumstances where physical access to health care facilities is limited and it is effective. Inadequate infrastructures, internet fraud, quackery, lack of confidentiality could limit the use of tele-physiotherapy in Nigeria.Conclusion: Physiotherapists in Nigeria have a positive perception about the practice of physiotherapy at a distance. It is hoped that this translates to the implementation of tele-physiotherapy in Nigeria clinical practice. However, investment in critical infrastructure is needed to transform its potential into a credible source of physiotherapy service.