Multidisciplinary implementation of self-directed therapy (My therapy) during inpatient rehabilitation: a RE-AIM evaluation across four allied health disciplines.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the implementation of the My Therapy program across physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech pathology and music therapy during inpatient rehabilitation, using the RE-AIM framework.

METHODS

A repeated cross-sectional implementation study. Baseline, post-implementation and 6-month sustainability audits were undertaken to determine reach (number of patients with programs and nursing encouragement of program practice), effectiveness (discharge FIM, adverse events), adoption (percentage staff using My Therapy), implementation fidelity (adherence to the four pillars of My Therapy) and maintenance (6 months). Data were collected from patients (n = 278), allied health and nursing staff (n = 61). Chi-squared tests and one-way ANOVA were used to assess change over time.

RESULTS

The proportion of patients with occupational therapy and music therapy independent practice programs significantly increased over time (p < 0.001), while speech pathology increased early, and physiotherapy remained stable. Nursing encouragement of independent practice increased significantly (p < 0.001). Most (88%) staff adopted My Therapy, and fidelity to all four My Therapy pillars improved significantly over time (p < 0.05). FIM at discharge did not change (p = 0.681) and no My Therapy-related adverse events were reported.

CONCLUSIONS

My Therapy was successfully implemented across four allied health disciplines. Broader multidisciplinary implementation enhanced opportunities for independent practice and contributed to holistic rehabilitation.