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A proposed anatomy syllabus for entry‐level physiotherapists in the United Kingdom: a modified Delphi methodology by physiotherapists who teach anatomy

Gangata, H; Porter, SB; Artz, N; Major, K

A proposed anatomy syllabus for entry‐level physiotherapists in the United Kingdom: a modified Delphi methodology by physiotherapists who teach anatomy Thumbnail


Authors

H Gangata

N Artz

K Major



Abstract

The ever‐increasing scope of physiotherapy practice is raising questions on what anatomical knowledge and skills ought to be taught within qualifying physiotherapy degree programmes in the United Kingdom (UK). The aim of the study was to create core anatomical knowledge and skills learning objectives to inform knowledge and skills for entry‐level physiotherapists in the UK. A two phased modified Delphi methodology created a consensual anatomy curriculum. A Research‐Team‐Expert‐Panel of four physiotherapists who teach anatomy proposed Anatomy Learning Objectives (Anat‐LOs) and accompanying clinical rationales relevant for newly qualified entry‐level physiotherapists. A Teacher‐Expert‐Panel of nine physiotherapists who taught anatomy to physiotherapy students in the UK reviewed Anat‐LOs in two consecutive Delphi Rounds, and rated and commented on each Anat‐LO. After each Delphi Round, the Research‐Team‐Expert‐Panel reviewed the ratings and comments from the Teacher‐Expert‐Panel and banked Anat‐LOs that passed the 85% acceptance threshold. There were 182 banked Anat‐LOs that spanned all eight areas: Introductory Concepts, Principles and Basic Histology; Head and Neck; Thorax; Abdomen, Pelvis and Perineum; Upper Limb; Lower Limb; Spine; and Neuroanatomy regions/systems. The Anat‐LOs develop both anatomical knowledge and key anatomical skills, such as palpation and conducting manual tests on model patients. A first ever core anatomy curriculum for entry‐level physiotherapists has been created for entry‐level physiotherapists, typically Band‐5 NHS physiotherapists, and takes an integrated learning approach. The anatomy curriculum brings clarity to students, teachers, clinical supervisors and future employers on the expected anatomical standards for entry‐level physiotherapists.

Citation

Gangata, H., Porter, S., Artz, N., & Major, K. (2023). A proposed anatomy syllabus for entry‐level physiotherapists in the United Kingdom: a modified Delphi methodology by physiotherapists who teach anatomy. Clinical Anatomy, https://doi.org/10.1002/ca.24001

Journal Article Type Article
Acceptance Date Dec 23, 2022
Publication Date Jan 24, 2023
Deposit Date Feb 21, 2023
Publicly Available Date Feb 21, 2023
Journal Clinical Anatomy
Print ISSN 0897-3806
Publisher Wiley
DOI https://doi.org/10.1002/ca.24001
Keywords EDUCATION, anatomy syllabus, entry‐level physiotherapists, UK
Publisher URL https://doi.org/10.1002/ca.24001

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