Abstract
PRIMARY TRACK
Guideline development
SECONDARY TRACK
Guideline development methods
BACKGROUND (INTRODUCTION)
To develop clinical guidelines is a demanding and expensive process. The Finnish Association of Physiotherapists (FAP) made their first physiotherapy (PT) guidelines (hip and knee arthrosis 2008) in cooperation with the Finnish Medical Society Duodecim (Current Care Guidelines), but with very limited economical resources. Thus, there is a need to create a new cost-effective model for developing such guidelines. The Higher Education Institution(s) (HEI) in Finland is expected to conduct research closely linked to working life. This poster presents a model for developing these in a network coordinated by FAP in cooperation with HEIs, researchers, and clinical experts.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES (TRAINING GOALS)
To implement evidence based physiotherapy. To utilize master theses in developing guidelines. To develop a cost-effective model.
METHODS
A FAP handbook is guiding the process. The working group (consisting of expert clinicians, researchers, and PT teachers) is responsible for the literature search strategy, the method used, and the content of the guideline. The PT students are conducting the quality analysis of studies included in the literature review. FAP arranges methodological courses for the involved PT teachers and students. A working group evaluates the level of evidence, makes the recommendations, and writes the guidelines.
RESULTS
The subject of the next guidelines and two pilot universities of applied sciences are selected. A systematic evaluation of the process is made by the working group and a steering group.
DISCUSSION (CONCLUSION)
New and cost-effective models are needed to develop PT guidelines.
TARGET AUDIENCE(S)
Guideline developer Allied health professionals