Physiotherapist’s Sex Preferences Among Patients: Findings from A Cross-Sectional Survey
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37506/x120r289Keywords:
Physiotherapy, Gender, Patient preferences, India, Healthcare utilizationAbstract
This cross-sectional study explored patient preferences regarding physiotherapist gender across age groups and sexes to
develop a framework for gender-specific physiotherapy. Data were collected through an online questionnaire via Google
Forms in June-July 2023 on a university campus. Of 450 questionnaires distributed, 413 were returned and analyzed. Results
indicated gender preferences were not significantly associated with age, marital status, or income (p = 0.56). However, a
notable preference was observed among female patients, with 58.1% favouring female physiotherapists. Male patients
showed a balanced preference: 28.4% preferred male physiotherapists, while 23.9% preferred female ones (p < 0.001).
Educational level significantly influenced gender preferences (p = 0.022), with less educated patients preferring female
physiotherapists. This research highlights the importance of considering patient preferences in physiotherapy settings to
enhance treatment outcomes. Incorporating gender-sensitive methodologies may lead to more effective and personalized
physiotherapy care.
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