TITLE:
Factors Which Influence Patient Choice When Choosing a Hand Therapist
AUTHORS:
Cassie C. Tseng, Phoebe N. Chang, Kimberly G. Singer, Stuart H. Kuschner
KEYWORDS:
Wrist Surgery, Hand Surgery, Hand Therapy, Certified Hand Therapist, Insurance, Patient Choice
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Orthopedics,
Vol.12 No.11,
November
7,
2022
ABSTRACT: Background: Orthopedic surgeons often refer patients to hand therapy following orthopedic injury or surgery to facilitate recovery and maximize outcomes. Patients should be a key part of the shared decision-making process when it comes to their rehabilitation. While there is existing literature investigating factors considered by patients when choosing other medical providers, there are currently no studies investigating factors considered by patients when choosing a hand therapist. Purpose: The purpose of the study is to investigate public perception of factors which are important when choosing a hand therapist. Methods: A convenience sample (N = 220) of adults over the age of 18 completed an anonymous online survey using an internet crowdsourcing platform. Respondents were asked to quantitatively rank the importance of 10 predetermined factors related to selecting a hand therapist. Results: Respondents ranked insurance coverage and credentialing as a certified hand therapist as highest in terms of importance. Conclusion: We found that the factors people consider important when selecting a hand therapist are similar to the factors described in the medical literature that are important when selecting a physician or other healthcare provider. The results have implications for physicians when ensuring continuity of care for their patients.