Patient Views Of The Advanced Practitioner Role In Primary Care: A Realist Review

Purpose: Approximately, 30% of GP consultations are due to musculoskeletal disorders (MSKDs). Physiotherapists are trained to assess, diagnose and treat a range of MSKDs, and could provide the first point of contact for Primary Care patients, but due to the novelty of this role, there is limited evidence on whether this extended role is acceptable to patients. However, previous research has explored acceptability of other Advanced Practitioner (AP) roles in Primary Care services, which could inform this new initiative. This project used realist review methodology to explore factors that influence patient perceived acceptability of AP roles within the context of Primary Care to inform understanding of the role within physiotherapy.