For children with disabilities, access to high-quality physical therapy services can be vital for their development and well-being. However, comparing and understanding the landscape of pediatric physiotherapy services across different countries can be challenging. A study has taken a significant step towards bridging this gap by developing a groundbreaking online tool.
The Challenge: Comparing Pediatric Physical Therapy Services
Researchers have long recognized the need for a standardized way to describe and compare pediatric physical therapy services around the world. This lack of a common framework makes it difficult to:
- Understand the availability and types of services offered in different regions.
- Identify best practices and areas for improvement.
- Share knowledge and expertise to enhance the quality of care for children with disabilities.
The ICSO-R-pedsPT Online Survey
This study focused on developing a user-friendly online survey tool called the ICSO-R-pedsPT. This survey is based on the International Classification of Service Organization in Rehabilitation (ICSO-R 2.0) framework, a widely recognized system for classifying and describing rehabilitation services.
Building and Refining the Survey
The researchers followed a three-step approach to develop and refine the ICSO-R-pedsPT:
- Adapting the ICSO-R Framework: Experts reviewed the ICSO-R 2.0 framework to identify relevant items specific to pediatric physiotherapy that could be captured through an online survey format.
- Pilot Testing and Feedback: Physiotherapists from around the world pilot-tested the survey and provided feedback through online interviews. This feedback helped refine the wording and response options to ensure clarity and global understanding.
- International Consultation: Researchers consulted with over 90 individuals from 30 countries to ensure the survey’s relevance and applicability across diverse settings.
A Look at the Final ICSO-R-pedsPT
The final version of the ICSO-R-pedsPT survey is designed for online use and takes into account feedback from international stakeholders. Here’s a breakdown of its key features:
- 42 Questions: The survey covers a comprehensive range of topics relevant to pediatric physiotherapy services.
- Three Categories: Questions are organized into three main categories: participant characteristics, service delivery, and provider work context.
- Globally Accessible: The survey wording and response options are designed to be clear and understandable for users worldwide.
The Potential Impact of ICSO-R-pedsPT
The ICSO-R-pedsPT survey has the potential to be a game-changer for pediatric physical therapy. By providing a standardized way to collect and compare data on services offered around the world, it can:
- Improve Transparency: Enhance understanding of the availability and types of pediatric physiotherapy services offered in different regions.
- Identify Best Practices: Facilitate the identification of effective service delivery models and areas for improvement.
- Promote Knowledge Sharing: Encourage collaboration among healthcare professionals to improve quality of care for children with disabilities.
A Stepping Stone for Better Care
The ICSO-R-pedsPT survey is a significant first step towards creating a more unified and effective global network of pediatric physical therapy services. By leveraging the information gathered through this tool, healthcare professionals can work together to ensure that all children with disabilities have access to the care they need to thrive.
Chantal Camden, Hilda Mulligan, Boya Nugraha, Christoph Gutenbrunner. Development of an online survey documenting paediatric physical therapy practice worldwide: a feasibility study. online report
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