Continuing professional development of Jordanian physiotherapists: A survey of activities, facilitators and barriers

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Engagement in continuing professional development (CPD) has recently become a mandatory requirement for practice in Jordan. This was part of the Jordanian government strategy to advance healthcare. AIMS The study aimed to draw the landscape of CPD for Jordanian physiotherapists. The activities, attitudes, and workplace environment related to CPD were explored. METHODS: A quantitative web-based survey was used to collect data. The survey was open for potential participants for three months from 29/01/2020. Only physiotherapists practicing in Jordan; and involved in direct patient care were invited to take part. Descriptive analysis was performed. RESULTS: Eighty-six Physiotherapists representing multiple cities in Jordan completed the survey. The percentage of female participants was 52.3%. Most participants were general physiotherapists (N = 42). Around 13% held a post graduate qualification. Most participants fulfilled the required number of CPD hours. The main driver for engagement in CPD was advancing knowledge (N = 47, 55%), followed by improving patients’ care (N = 22, 26%), and maximising opportunities for employment or promotion. Participants engaged with local workshops, reading articles in medical journals, and attending theoretical lectures in the workplace. The main barriers to engage with CPD were the high financial burden (N = 65, 76%), inability to travel (N = 40, 47%), and time limitations (N = 33, 38%). CONCLUSION: This study is the first to provide evidence of the activities, motivators, and barriers to CPD in a sample of Jordanian physiotherapists. Findings are important in informing healthcare policymaking. It offers directions to maximise the impact of CPD.