Abstract:
The use of outcome measures by rehabilitation professionals has been advocated for many
years; however, routine use is still lacking. Literature on the factors influencing the use of
outcome measures locally is limited; therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine
the factors that influence the use of outcome measures by community-based
physiotherapists in Gauteng Province. While 75 community-based physiotherapists from
Gauteng Province invited to participate in the study, 48 community-based physiotherapists
responded. A descriptive cross-sectional approach was used in this study. A validated
questionnaire was piloted to test its applicability to the South African setting. Thirty-seven
per cent of the participants used at least one outcome measure in practice. Support from
colleagues and positive attitudes were identified as factors that facilitated the use while lack
of knowledge, lack of skills and lack of time were identified as barriers towards the use of
outcome measures. The only statistically significant relationship found was between the lack
of knowledge and the lower level of use of outcome measures. In conclusion, it was evident
that there was poor usage of outcome measures by community-based physiotherapists in
Gauteng Province and the barriers identified ranged from individual level to organisational
level. Recommendations are made regarding policy for the implementation of policies and
guidelines on outcome measures and monitoring thereof in form of audits. Special interest
groups could offer courses on outcome measures and physiotherapists be encouraged to
undergo postgraduate education. Therefore, the researcher suggests that continuous
training be provided within the workplace and outcome measures be adopted.
