Abstract:
Objectives Current perspectives concerning clinical decision making favour inclusion of patient preference for therapy. This exploratory study aimed to forge introductory insights into patient preference for outpatient-based rehabilitation after total knee replacement (TKR). Methods TKR recipients from six public hospitals participating in a prospective, longitudinal study assessing outcomes after surgery were surveyed 1 year after surgery about preferences for rehabilitation. Surveys were conducted face-to-face or via postal questionnaire. Questions included global satisfaction (percentage scale) with therapy received, future preference for therapy and the reasons underpinning preference. Results Ninety-three (93/115) TKR recipients participated [mean age 68 (SD 8) years; 66% female; 75% face-to-face interview]. Group-based (39/93) and one-to-one therapies (38/93) were the most common modes experienced. Most participants (81/93) were highly satis?ed (satisfaction 75%). Future preference was associated with satisfaction with past exposure regardless of mode (P = 0.02), hence no overall preference for one mode emerged. Commonality existed in the reasons why patients preferred speci?c modes. The most common reason for preferring group-based therapy was psychosocial bene?t whilst the more personalized approach was the most common reason for preferring one-to-one therapy.
