Hand therapists report perceived differences in patient referrals from hand surgeons vs other referral sources: A survey study

摘要

Abstract Study Design Descriptive research. Introduction/Purpose Survey research was performed to determine if there is a perceived difference in outcomes of patients referred to hand therapy from specialized hand surgeons vs nonspecialized physicians. Methods The survey was administered to members of the American Society of Hand Therapists through an electronic mailing. Results A total of 744 American Society of Hand Therapists members responded to the survey. Therapists reported a difference in recovery time between patients referred by a hand surgeon vs a nonspecialized physician. Sixty-seven percent ( n ?= 490) of the respondents answered yes and 12% ( n ?= 84) answered no. Discussion It is important to consider that not all hand patients receive treatment from a specialized hand surgeon and that a specialized hand therapist may be an integral team member for patients who have not received specialized care from their referral source. Conclusion Most hand therapists who responded to this survey believe that there is a difference in outcomes of patients referred to hand therapy from specialized hand surgeons vs nonspecialized physicians. Level of Evidence Level 3. ]]>