Development and evaluation of strategies to support rural secondments for junior Physiotherapists.
Gabrielle Van Balen1, Mitchell Smith1, Laura Parish 1, Ryan Gallagher1,21John Hunter Hospital Physiotherapy Department , New Lambton Heights , NSW, Australia 2School of Health Sciences, University of Newcastle , Callaghan , NSW , Australia
Abstract
Background: Rural workforce shortages are a national issue. One strategy to address shortages involves using secondments from larger healthcare sites to resource staffing at rural sites. Numerous strategies have been proposed to prepare staff for rural practice. This project aimed to explore self-reported impact of the development and implementation of an education, training, supervision and competency framework package. This framework aimed to increase support offered to junior physiotherapists undertaking rural secondments and improve job satisfaction whilst working at rural sites.
Methodology: Pre and post evaluation of the implemented training, education, supervision and competency framework supporting junior physiotherapists undertaking rural secondments across northern NSW. A baseline survey of physiotherapists who had previously undertaken a secondment defined current practice and limitations. Intervention was delivered based upon feedback, including a buddy mentoring program, improved orientation processes, clinical competency completion and upskilling in specialty areas. Success was evaluated via post-implementation surveying over 12 months.
Results: Statistically significant improvements in staff satisfaction and feelings of support were reported by staff, with increased awareness of escalation processes for patients under their care. Additionally, staff reported improved access to clinical support and increased opportunity to complete relevant clinical competencies.
Discussion: These findings support the need for structured and targeted training, education and supervision for staff undertaking rural secondments. These findings provide evidence that the strategies undertaken empower staff with greater confidence to work rurally. This project supports the translation of competency frameworks, structured access to professional development and supervision to successfully support a rural allied health workforce.
Biography
Both Gabrielle and Mitchell embarked upon rural secondments as part of their early work as physiotherapists in NSW Health while working at a large tertiary teaching hospital.
Both clinicians found working in rural and regional areas to be a highly rewarding experience, however during this time they experienced the challenges of rural allied health roles that often required extended clinical scope with limited clinical support.
Now, as senior clinicians they have identified and embraced the opportunity to support junior staff embarking in rural secondment with the goal to improve job /staff satisfaction and clinical experience of working within rural health.