Referral practices of medical practitioners in central South Africa to physiotherapy services for patients living with musculoskeletal conditions.

Only 49 medical practitioners were analysed, from an estimated 452 in Bloemfontein, so results may not apply to other cities or health systems. The response rate was 46.7%, and the sample represented approximately 11% of Bloemfontein's 452 medical practitioners. Answers were self-reported from a questionnaire, not verified against referral records or patient outcomes. Two participants did not answer the referral criteria question. The study did not compare private and public sector practitioners, although sector may affect referral practice. Pilot data from five practitioners were included in the main results. The text and Table 1 give different numbers for referral frequency, so the study does not provide a clear referral frequency. The study describes referral practices and influences; it does not test whether referrals were appropriate or whether patient outcomes improved.

Do not read these percentages as actual referral rates or proof that physiotherapy improves musculoskeletal outcomes. They are self-reported influences from 49 medical practitioners in one city.