Increasing patient participation: the effects of training physical and occupational therapists to involve geriatric patients in the concerns-clarification and goal-setting processes

Background and Purpose. When asked, most physical and occupational therapists will say that they involve their patients in the goal setting and treatment planning processes. This study investigates the effectiveness of a training program for physical and occupational therapists -- the Ozer Payton Nelson (OPN) Method of patient-centered communication. Specifically, the study focuses on whether the training program improves the therapists' ability to seek patient participation in the concerns-clarification and goal-setting processes. Subjects. Twenty-three physical and occupational therapist employees of a rehabilitation services provider completed training in the OPN Method. Methods. The OPN Method consisted of five 90-minute experiential training sessions conducted by the researcher. The Adapted Participation Methods Assessment Instrument (APMAI), a 23-criterion-based assessment tool, which measures the ability of therapists to seek patient participation, was used for assessing the effectiveness of instruction. Results. Ten criteria items of the APMAI demonstrated statistically significant differences (P < .05) in frequencies from pretest to posttest scoring. Discussion. Therapists attributed their skill acquisition to several factors, including round-table discussion, time between training sessions to allow for practice of the OPN Method, and the use of the program planning sheets. Attitudes, beliefs, and skill-set deficiencies were identified that may cause therapists to avoid patient involvement. Conclusion. The study suggests that the Ozer Payton Nelson Method can have a positive effect on 10 of the 23 criteria items that therapists need in order to effectively involve patients at a higher level of participation. Empowering patients to take a more active role may lead to improved outcomes and satisfaction.