The effect of hospital restructuring on the role of physical therapists in acute care.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to develop a conceptual model describing the effect of hospital restructuring on the role of physical therapists working in an acute care hospital.


METHODS
Organizational and role changes within a single physical therapy department undergoing restructuring were identified using a qualitative case study methodology. Data were gathered from semistructured interviews of four key informants, observations, and artifacts. A conceptual model and case study were developed from the themes that emerged from the data.


CONCLUSIONS
Role changes for physical therapists in patient care delivery included "being flexible," "being productive," "being responsible for the care of all patients," "focusing on patient discharge," and "using support staff." Roles changes in professional interaction included "sharing knowledge and information" and "helping, sharing, and coordination work." Implications for physical therapy are discussed.
Lopopolo
R B
RB
Department of Physical Therapy, Beaver College, Glenside, PA 19038, USA. lopopolo@castle.beaver.edu
D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D006302:Health Services Research; D006754:Hospital Restructuring; D006801:Humans; D007400:Interprofessional Relations; D017146:Models, Organizational; D009936:Organizational Innovation; D010347:Patient Care Planning; D010348:Patient Care Team; D010814:Physical Therapy Department, Hospital / Q000458:organization & administration*; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities; D012380:Role; D014481:United States