Self-efficacy beliefs and confidence of rural physiotherapists to undertake specialist paediatric caseloads: a paediatric example
Minisini, M., Sheppard, L.A., and Jones, A. (2010) Self-efficacy beliefs and confidence of rural physiotherapists to undertake specialist paediatric caseloads: a paediatric example. Rural and Remote Health, 10 (4). 1426. - .
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Abstract
Introduction: Rural physiotherapists are faced with unique challenges, one of which is the necessity to extend their skills and knowledge to areas that would be covered by a specialist physiotherapist in an urban setting. The effects of this on the physiotherapist’s confidence and self-belief has not been studied. The present study aimed to measure the self-efficacy and confidence of rural physiotherapists who undertake service delivery in the specialist field of paediatrics.
Method: A descriptive, cross-sectional design survey was made of rural and remote physiotherapists working in north-west Queensland, Australia. Responses were coded and analysed using descriptive statistics and cross tabs to compare existing relationships among variables.
Results: Twenty-three (of 56) completed surveys were returned (41% response rate). Rural and remote physiotherapist’s are likely to be sole practitioners or part of a small group of clinicians, working full time in a hospital or private practice. These physiotherapists reported less peer support than urban physiotherapists and were required to treat multiple cases across specialist areas. Physiotherapists working in such a demanding, unsupported environment have a low belief in their abilities and poor coping strategies, causing them to develop low self-efficacy.
Conclusion: Rural physiotherapists having low self-efficacy can mean they have low levels of confidence in their ability to practise, and hold the belief that they lack the skills and attributes to practice. This could mean a conflict with professional conduct and ethical standards. Early identification of low self-efficacy gives time to review, develop and sustain strategies to help address the problems faced by the rural physiotherapist workforce, and to re-develop this workforce into one that is more stable and supportive.
| Item ID: | 14904 |
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| Item Type: | Article (Research - C1) |
| ISSN: | 1445-6354 |
| Keywords: | adaptation, adjustment, Australia, general practice workforce, Northern Territory, place attachment, retention |
| Additional Information: | When an article is accepted for publication in RRH, all authors are required to sign and return a form assigning copyright to James Cook University, which administers the journal, before publication can proceed. When an article is published, James Cook University grants to the authors the rights to make the final published version of the article available in digital form over the internet on a website under the control of their employer or through any digital repository under the control of their employer. http://www.rrh.org.au/background/InformationForAuthors.asp |
| Date Deposited: | 08 Nov 2010 23:05 |
| FoR Codes: | 11 MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES > 1199 Other Medical and Health Sciences > 119999 Medical and Health Sciences not elsewhere classified @ 100% |
| SEO Codes: | 92 HEALTH > 9202 Health and Support Services > 920201 Allied Health Therapies (excl. Mental Health Services) @ 100% |
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