Parkinson's specialist physiotherapy: a Delphi study on scope, roles, and training needs.

Referral to a Parkinson's specialist physiotherapist is recommended from diagnosis, yet no clear consensus defines this role—limiting clarity of both implementation of the role in practice and role development, which in turn limits the opportunity for standardised training pathways. This study used a consensus-based approach to define the role and identify the knowledge, skills, and training required for Parkinson's specialist physiotherapists. A modified Delphi study was conducted in two phases. Phase one recruited people living with Parkinson's (PwP) and registered physiotherapists to complete an online survey, which informed Phase two. Phase two was an international modified online Delphi study involving three expert groups (PwP, clinical physiotherapists, academic physiotherapists). The Delphi consisted of three rounds: rounds one and two collected quantitative data with consensus set at 75% a priori; round three involved focus groups to agree a role definition and explore items not reaching consensus in earlier rounds. Phase one: 132 participants (29 physiotherapists, 103 PwP) completed the survey exploring perceptions of specialist Parkinson's physiotherapy and its core competencies. 97% of physiotherapists and 88% of PwP agreed PwP should see a Parkinson's specialist physiotherapist. 93% of PwP and 84% of physiotherapists supported a standardised training pathway. Findings highlighted the need for a clear role definition. Phase two: 23 participants (9 PwP, 7 clinical physiotherapists, 7 academic physiotherapists) completed all three Delphi rounds. Round one achieved consensus on 43/69 statements across three domains (Knowledge, Skills, Attributes); round two achieved consensus on 4/23 remaining statements. Data from rounds one and two informed a role definition and scope of practice. Statements not reaching consensus in rounds one and two were discussed in round three. Round three achieved 92% consensus on the proposed role definition and explored barriers to role standardisation. This study, using a consensus-based approach, identified four core pillars that define the role of a Parkinson's specialist physiotherapist: i) clinical practice, ii) leadership and management, iii) research, and iv) education. Future research should develop a training pathway to support the consistent, effective delivery of care for this complex condition.

Author dc:creator

• Orme-Smith, Megan Isobel

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• J. Jones and K. Cooper

• Parkinson's specialist physiotherapist
• Specialist physiotherapy
• Core characteristics
• Role definition
• Scope of role

Language dc:language

en

Identifier

oai:rgu-repository.worktribe.com:3476020
https://doi.org/10.48526/rgu-wt-3476020

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:rgu-repository.worktribe.com:3476020