Physiotherapists’ perceptions of clients from culturally diverse backgrounds

ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to identify the perceptions, attitudes and beliefs of physiotherapists towards clients of non-English-speaking backgrounds.DesignQualitative methods of semi-structured interviews and observations were used to conduct an exploratory study.SettingThree hospitals in New South Wales, Australia.ParticipantsSix physiotherapists from the hospitals were interviewed and other physiotherapists were observed.ResultsSome participants acted towards clients from cultural minorities based on stereotypes, whilst other participants with limited cultural knowledge incorrectly presumed that they were proficient at cross-cultural interactions. Cultural assimilation was favoured by one physiotherapist.ConclusionPhysiotherapists need to be aware of their own cultural biases, and be willing to undergo a change within themselves to interact effectively and provide quality care to clients from non-English-speaking backgrounds.