Evidence‐based practice in physiotherapy in Argentina: Barriers, perceptions and behaviors

Abstract

AbstractBackground and PurposeEvidence‐based practice (EBP) has been widely implemented in different areas of biomedical sciences. However, no precedents in Argentina have investigated the data regarding the knowledge and difficulties related to EBP in physiotherapists. The purpose was to describe the self‐reported behavior, knowledge, skills, opinion, and barriers related to the EBP of Argentinian physiotherapists.MethodsA customized descriptive survey was conducted among 289 physical therapists in Argentina. The data were analyzed descriptively.ResultsThe response rate was 56% (163/289). Argentinian physiotherapists update themselves through scientific articles, meetings, congresses, and courses. They reported having sufficient knowledge to use EBP, informing patients about treatment options, and considering their choices in the decision‐making process. However, there were inconsistencies in responses regarding experience with EBP during undergraduate or postgraduate studies. The most frequently reported barriers were lack of time, difficulty in understanding statistics, and difficulties with the English language of scientific articles.DiscussionEBP in Argentine physiotherapists is still poorly understood. Time, language, and difficulties in understanding statistics are the most important barriers to the implementation of EBP. Undergraduate and postgraduate courses are warranted to improve the clinical decision‐making process.