title: More than physical function? Exploring physiotherapists' experiences in delivering rehabilitation to patients requiring palliative care in the community setting.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Physiotherapists, as essential members of the multidisciplinary palliative care team, are key to the successful rehabilitation of palliative patients. There is, however, a scarcity of literature on the experiences of primary care physiotherapists delivering this service.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  This study explored the experiences of physiotherapists delivering rehabilitation in palliative care and identified perceived barriers and enablers.
  
  
  METHODS
  A qualitative approach was adopted involving semistructured interviews with a purposive sample of primary care physiotherapists (n = 11).
  
  
  RESULTS
  Participants viewed rehabilitation as helping to maximize independence and improve quality of life for palliative patients. Their role was primarily focused on physical functioning but within an overall philosophy of providing comfort and supportive care. Several barriers and enablers to delivering rehabilitation were identified; these were related to communication, resources, teamwork, and training.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Physiotherapists believed that rehabilitation adds value to palliative care, but existing barriers limit the service. Improved collaboration and timely access to resources could assist in the provision of rehabilitation to palliative patients.
authors.affiliation: South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust, Lagan Valley Hospital, Lisburn, UK.
authors.forename: Kathryn
authors.initials: K
authors.lastname: Carson
authors.forename: Sonja
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Mcllfatrick
mesh_terms: D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D003144:Communication Barriers; D006297:Health Services Accessibility; D006801:Humans; D007400:Interprofessional Relations; D010166:Palliative Care; D059825:Physical Therapists; D024382:Professional Role; D036301:Qualitative Research; D011788:Quality of Life; D012046:Rehabilitation; D012944:Social Support; D006113:United Kingdom