Table 2 Thematic analysis main themes and subthemes
Main themes | Subthemes |
|---|---|
“Going to see a physiotherapist who specializes in painful movements, well that makes sense to me” | • Patients had important sudden pain and disability • Patients were expecting to be quickly managed • The FCP model made sense for patients |
“The physiotherapist offered to give me exercises to do at home to relieve the back pain” | • Rapid access prevented complications • Positive informed experience was offered for the evaluation and care plan |
“I went there feeling confident” | • Physiotherapists were perceived as competent first-contact practitioners that may replace physicians • Physiotherapists had the competences to make a valid diagnosis, prescribe medication and sick leaves • Physiotherapists gave thorough education and explanations and listened to patients • The FCP model supported interprofessional collaboration |
“The physiotherapist can do more than just send you to see more appropriate people” | • Clearer definition of the FCP advanced practice roles and model was needed • Physiotherapists should be allowed to prescribe longer sick leave certificates and additional medication • The model should include additional physiotherapy follow-up sessions |