Evidence‐based practice in physiotherapy in Argentina: Barriers, perceptions and behaviors

Abstract

Background and PurposeEvidence‐based practice (EBP) has been widely implemented in different areas of biomedical sciences. However, no precedents in Argentina have investigated the data regarding the knowledge and difficulties related to EBP in physiotherapists. The purpose was to describe the self‐reported behavior, knowledge, skills, opinion, and barriers related to the EBP of Argentinian physiotherapists.MethodsA customized descriptive survey was conducted among 289 physical therapists in Argentina. The data were analyzed descriptively.ResultsThe response rate was 56% (163/289). Argentinian physiotherapists update themselves through scientific articles, meetings, congresses, and courses. They reported having sufficient knowledge to use EBP, informing patients about treatment options, and considering their choices in the decision‐making process. However, there were inconsistencies in responses regarding experience with EBP during undergraduate or postgraduate studies. The most frequently reported barriers were lack of time, difficulty in understanding statistics, and difficulties with the English language of scientific articles.DiscussionEBP in Argentine physiotherapists is still poorly understood. Time, language, and difficulties in understanding statistics are the most important barriers to the implementation of EBP. Undergraduate and postgraduate courses are warranted to improve the clinical decision‐making process.

Evidence-based practice — implementation level and attitude among physical, occupational, and speech and language therapists in Germany: status quo

“…The results of Braun et al 26 showed that approximately 70%-80% of German physiotherapists, regardless of their level of education, have a generally positive attitude toward EBP and believe that EBP guidelines are helpful in clinical practice. This finding is consistent with surveys conducted in other non-European countries, such as Argentina, 30 the UAE, 31 and European countries such as Austria, 32,33 Italy, 34 Spain, 35 and Sweden. 36 However, non-academic therapists do not have EBP education courses as part of their curriculum in Germany and the concept appears difficult to put into practice.…”

“…10 The results of our study are consistent with these findings. The concept of EBP as part of the curriculum and academization can help reduce barriers to EPB, 30 such as lack of access to full-text versions of studies, lack of time to read, and limited skills and experience in searching for scientific evidence. 10 The same limitations have already been noted in other international studies.…”