The experience of physiotherapists navigating the portfolio route to completion of the roadmap to practice

Abstract

Background: The education of first contact practitioners (FCPs) working in musculoskeletal practice in primary care is guided by an NHS England framework: the Roadmap to Practice. This includes a portfolio route to recognise the skills and capabilities of experienced physiotherapists. Aim: To review the portfolio route for evidencing the capabilities expected of the roadmap through the experience of practitioners. Method: An online survey and interviews were conducted of FCPs and supervisors from early-implementer sites. Results: While participants largely supported the need for assurance of their capabilities, their personal perceptions of completing the portfolio were strongly influenced by their career stage, clinical experience and length of time in their FCP role. Individuals often had limited planned time for portfolio development and competing clinical priorities. Conclusion: The portfolio route was acknowledged as a valuable way to evidence capability within practice. The volume of evidence required and the limited guidance given were overwhelming for many participants.