Unpublished MSc thesis, Metropolia University of Applied Sciences, 2023/05, 77, type of study: ,qs,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,

Free full text   (https://www.theseus.fi/handle/10024/802279)

Keywords:

communication [91]
interdisciplinarity [44]
networking [3]
osteopaths [269]
perception [146]
qualitative study [290]

Abstract:

Interprofessional communication has been shown to be an essential component in contemporary healthcare. Despite its importance, studies on interprofessional communication within osteopathy are lacking. The purpose of this master’s thesis was to increase the knowledge base about interprofessional communication in osteopathic practice through the gathering of perceptions of experienced osteopaths. The aim was to initiate discussion amongst significant stakeholders. Participants were recruited through purposeful sampling. Inclusion criteria consisted of having more than 5 years of experience in osteopathic practice and practicing in an English-speaking country with statutory regulation of osteopathy. Participants with qualifications in other healthcare professions were excluded. Qualitative data was collected from 6 participants through semi-structured in-depth interviews. Thematic analysis using an inductive approach was used for the data analysis. Codes and themes were generated. Thematic analysis generated 4 main themes: Interprofessional communication strategies, barriers to interprofessional communication, preparedness to practice and osteopathy as an allied collaborative healthcare profession. Themes were used to create a theoretical framework which aimed to illustrate the findings and provide a conceptual model for the role of interprofessional communication in osteopathic practice. The small sample size was a significant limitation of this master’s thesis. Nevertheless, the results have fulfilled the aim to provide the opportunity for discussion of interprofessional communication within osteopathic practice. It is hoped that this master’s thesis can provide the groundwork for larger studies which can lead to the development of a best practice framework for interprofessional communication skills for osteopaths.