Weathering the storm of COVID-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional survey of reported changes in first contact physiotherapy services in the UK and Australia.

ABSTRACT: Limited evidence exists on early COVID-19 related changes in First Contact Physiotherapy Services (FCPS) for musculoskeletal (MSK) patients within the UK primary care (PC) and Australian emergency departments (ED), knowledge that is crucial for understanding their level of responsiveness and readiness for future crises. This study explores the initial changes in FCPS during the COVID-19 pandemic in the UK and Australia. The UK and Australia represent a function of both country and their FCPS context (UK [PC], Australia [ED]). A cross-sectional survey was conducted from January-April 2023. Data were self-reported by physiotherapists in FCPS roles, managing MSK patients in the UK and Australia. Only responses from those who recalled changes in FCPS were included, with 153 participants analys

SUBMITTER: Adeniji OA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12822978 | biostudies-literature | 2026

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature