Knowledge, Perception and Media Reporting of Physiotherapy and Physiotherapy-related Issues among Healthcare Journalists in Lagos, Nigeria

Abstract

The physiotherapy profession is rapidly growing and there is need to adopt strategies to improve its involvement and relationship with the public.  The profession must, as a matter of urgency reach out, market itself and promote the health of members of the public. Unfortunately, the  importance and role of physiotherapy have been inadequately communicated to the public, especially with regards to the media reporting of  physiotherapy and related issues. This study investigated the knowledge, perception, and media reporting of physiotherapy and issues related to it  among healthcare journalists in Lagos, Nigeria. Fifty-three healthcare journalists registered with the Health Writers Association of Nigeria were  conveniently selected in a cross-sectional survey. A selfadministered questionnaire containing 31 questions was used with data being summarised  and analysed descriptively. With a return rate of over 90%, 47 (94%) respondents agreed that physiotherapy was a professional course, 1 (2%)  respondent did not agree with this while 2 (4%) did not know about the nature of the profession. On physiotherapy being very important in  healthcare delivery, 38 (76%) respondents strongly agreed, 10 (20%) agreed and 2 (4%) had no idea. Four respondents equated physiotherapy to  physical education and 90% (n = 45) perceived it as massage. While 40% (n = 20) had previously reported on physiotherapy, only 4% (n = 2) had  frequently interacted with physiotherapists. In conclusion, the study respondents had good knowledge and positive perception of physiotherapy,  but poor media reporting for physiotherapy and physiotherapy-related issues. Constant interaction with physiotherapists and physiotherapy  enlightenment programmes should be used to strengthen knowledge and perception of physiotherapy among healthcare journalists.