Goal-setting in physiotherapy: exploring a person-centered perspective

Abstract

Objective: To analyze definitions and related requirements, processes, and operationalization of person-centered goal-setting in the physiotherapy research literature; to discuss those findings in relation to underlying principles of person-centeredness; and to provide an initial framework for how person-centered goal-setting could be conceptualized and operationalized in physiotherapy. Methods: A literature search was conducted in the databases: CINAHL, PubMed, PEDro, PsycINFO, REHABdata and Scopus. A content analysis was performed on how person-centered goal-setting was described.Results: A total of 21 articles were included in the content analysis. Five categories were identified: 1) Understanding goals that are meaningful to the patients; 2) Setting goals in collaboration; 3) Facing challenges with person-centered goal-setting; 4) Developing skills by experiences and education; and 5) Changing interaction and reflective practice. These categories were abstracted into two higher-ordered interlaced themes: 1) To seek mutual understanding of what is meaningful to the patient; and 2) To refine physiotherapy interaction skills, which we suggest would be useful for further conceptualization.Conclusion: In this analysis, we interpreted person-centered goal-setting in physiotherapy as a process of interaction toward a mutual understanding of what is meaningful to the patient. Future research may explore how to integrate mindful listening, embodied interaction and continuous ethical reflection with different assessments and treatment methods.

Keywords: Goal-setting; patient care planning; patient-centered care; professional competence; professional competence gap; professional-patient relations; review.