Views and experiences of non-medical prescribing: a national survey of prescribing physiotherapists

Parkinson, Daniel Ian and Hartley, Sandra Elaine ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2615-8530 (2024) Views and experiences of non-medical prescribing: a national survey of prescribing physiotherapists. Physiotherapy, 124. pp. 180-187. ISSN 0031-9406

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Abstract

Background: Physiotherapy non-medical prescribing (NMP) is a contemporary development whereby physiotherapists can prescribe medications within their scope of practice. Despite institutional and professional support for its implementation, data regarding physiotherapists’ views and experiences of NMP is limited. Objectives: To explore the views and experiences of NMP for UK prescribing physiotherapists. Design: Cross-sectional study, using an anonymous, online survey. Methods: Recruitment involved non-probability sampling targeting UK physiotherapists with a NMP qualification. Data was gathered about the role, scope, and activity of prescribing physiotherapists via closed and open-ended questions. Descriptive statistics and inductive content analysis were undertaken. Results: Of the 552 respondents, most worked in FCP roles (122/552, 22%) and 82% (450/552) prescribed medication. NSAIDs were the most prescribed drug class (267/450, 59%). Perceived benefits were enhanced patient care, reduced burden on other prescribers, and improved medication access. Challenges included restrictions on prescribing or deprescribing controlled drugs (CDs), limited scope of practice, and inadequate CPD. Themes identified to improve physiotherapy NMP were increasing the CDs that physiotherapists can independently prescribe and deprescribe, improving CPD and supervision, and increasing awareness amongst the public and healthcare professionals. Conclusions: This study provides novel findings of the perceived benefits, challenges, and development areas for physiotherapy prescribing. There is a need to review and potentially expand the drug formulary for physiotherapists. Improving education and supervision is crucial for the sustainable growth of physiotherapy NMP. Increasing the awareness amongst the public and healthcare professionals may enhance the acceptance of physiotherapy prescribing. Contribution of the paper: - This study provides novel insights into physiotherapy NMP in the UK and highlights future development needs. - The survey identifies that NMP physiotherapists perceive a need to review and expand the current drug formulary to allow physiotherapists to independently prescribe and deprescribe more CDs within their scope of practice. - Physiotherapy prescribing is rapidly increasing across the UK, improving the education, supervision, and awareness of physiotherapy NMP should be considered to enhance future practice.