Opinion survey on the profession of a physiotherapist in Poland

• Published in: Journal of education, health and sport Vol. 11; no. 5; pp. 119 - 130
• Main Authors: Pajor, Kacper, Szumilas, Paweł
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Kazimierz Wielki University 30.05.2021
• Subjects: physical therapy speciality; public opinion; rehabilitation
• ISSN: 2391-8306; 2391-8306
• DOI: 10.12775/JEHS.2021.11.05.012

IntroductionDespite numerous activities of the National Chamber of Physiotherapists, there are reasons that question the organization of physiotherapy in Poland. Public services are particularly criticized, which is alarming, because physiotherapy that functions well within the public health service is essential for maintaining the optimal efficiency of the entire system.PurposeDetermining the current opinion on the profession of a physiotherapist and the process of physiotherapy in Poland, taking into account the differences between reimbursed services and those provided in non-public entities.Material and methodThe method of diagnostic survey distributed with the use of social networks was used. The study group included 164 people (53F, 111M).ResultsThe quality of private services was statistically significantly (p <.0001) assessed better on a five-point scale (4.74 [SD = 0.44]) than reimbursed services (3.1 [SD = 1.20]). Comparing the opinion on commercial services with those provided under public health care, significant (p <.0001) differences were also noted in other assessed aspects in favor of private physiotherapy, which was assessed as good. Public health services were rated averagely.ConclusionsPublic health care physiotherapy is rated worse than commercial services.People who have undergone physiotherapy financed by the National Health Fund would be less willing to start physiotherapy again if necessary than people with experience from private physiotherapy offices.Activities optimizing the work system of physiotherapists can improve the opinion about physiotherapy in public health care in Poland, giving measurable health and economic benefits in the long term.