Type Of Work
- Report
The Physiotherapists in the Emergency Department (PED) sub-project draws on models of
expanded scope of practice physiotherapy developed by State and Territory health authorities.
These models equip physiotherapists with the skills and experience to work in Primary Contact
Physiotherapy (PCP) roles in Emergency Departments (EDs). The role allows physiotherapists
to assess, treat, refer and discharge patients presenting with a specified set of musculoskeletal
(MSK) conditions. The model has the potential to improve patient outcomes, reduce waiting
times and ease pressure in times of high demand. To date, the published evidence supporting
the introduction of PCP roles into emergency departments is sparse and characterised by
methodological limitations.
The Physiotherapists in the Emergency Department (PED) sub-project draws on models of
expanded scope of practice physiotherapy developed by State and Territory health authorities.
These models equip physiotherapists with the skills and experience to work in Primary Contact
Physiotherapy (PCP) roles in Emergency Departments (EDs). The role allows physiotherapists
to assess, treat, refer and discharge patients presenting with a specified set of musculoskeletal
(MSK) conditions. The model has the potential to improve patient outcomes, reduce waiting
times and ease pressure in times of high demand. To date, the published evidence supporting
the introduction of PCP roles into emergency departments is sparse and characterised by
methodological limitations.