Assessing and Comparing Musculoskeletal Knowledge and Red Flag Identification Skills: A Cross-Sectional Study of Physical Therapists and Primary Care Physicians

Abstract Background Musculoskeletal disorders are one of the most common health issues often managed at the level of primary health care, putting a significant load on primary care physicians (PCPs). Enabling physical therapists to be first-contact practitioner for patients with musculoskeletal disorders could improve patient access, expedite management, enhance outcomes and reduce costs. However, this role requires a high level of musculoskeletal knowledge and the ability to detect red flags. To date, no study has assessed or compared these skills between physical therapists and PCPs in Saudi Arabia. Methods A cross-sectional study was undertaken using an electronic survey comprising 16 case scenarios for musculoskeletal disorders. The survey assessed participants’ knowledge and ability to identify red flags. Study participants included physical therapist and PCPs practicing at Ministry of Health hospitals and/or primary care centers in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and were involved in the management of adults with musculoskeletal conditions and disorders. Results A total of 60 physical therapists and 76 PCPs (43 family medicine physicians, 33 general practitioners) participated. Good knowledge levels (total score ≥ 75%) were found for 7% of physical therapists compared to 18% of PCPs, and moderate knowledge levels (total score 60–75%) for 70% of physical therapists compared to 62% of PCP participants (P = .003). Conclusion Physical therapists and PCPs in Saudi Arabia demonstrated an overall moderate level of musculoskeletal knowledge and the ability to identify red flags. The results suggest that with further education on red flags identification, physical therapists in Saudi Arabia could potentially act as first-contact practitioners for patients with musculoskeletal conditions and disorders.