The personal, behavioural and organisational factors that affect access and effectiveness of clinical supervision in allied health
David Snowdon1, Marcus Gardner2, Fiona Kent1, Melanie Farlie1, Sharon Downie3, Owen Howlett2, Nicholas Taylor4,5 1Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia2Bendigo Health, Bendigo, Victoria, Australia3Royal Children’s Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia4La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia5Eastern Health, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Abstract
Background
Clinical supervision (CS) of allied health (AH) workers provides proposed benefits including safe patient care and improved professional wellbeing. However, access to effective CS is not equitable across AH professions and settings. The aim of this study was to establish the determinants of access and effectiveness of CS in AH workers.
Methods
A cross-sectional survey was conducted across Victoria in 2021 using the Manchester Clinical Supervision Scale (MCSS-26) to collect data on CS effectiveness and additional open-ended survey questions. Multivariable linear regression analysis was conducted to determine differences in MCSS-26 scores across AH professions, and work location and setting. Open-ended responses were analysed using content analysis, interpreted through Bandura’s social cognitive theory.
Results
From the 1113 responses, 319 (28%) reported they were not receiving CS. Those not accessing CS were more likely to be male, managers, in a rural location, and providing CS to others. For those who did receive CS, MCSS-26 scores significantly higher for psychologists and AH workers in private practice settings. Effective CS was influenced by personal determinants such as attitudes, perceptions and values; behavioural determinants such as autonomy, engagement and self-efficacy; and environmental determinants such as access, resourcing and culture.
Discussion
Overall, CS was effective for AH workers but more than 1 in 4 do not access CS. Where CS was least effective, additional training may be required, however, when considered within the context of Bandura’s theoretical framework, it is likely that the environment also plays a significant role and organisational support may be required.
Biography
Marcus is a podiatrist and is currently the Manager of Allied Health Education at Bendigo Health. He was the project manager for the development of the Victorian allied health clinical supervision framework and training resources. Marcus has recently completed his PhD through La Trobe University and his topic related to the implementation of clinical supervision for allied health professionals.