An investigation into the development of a computerized information system for NHS physiotherapy services in England : an action research study

The key focus of the thesis is an action research study, in which a critical approach was adopted. The thesis is about an investigation into the process of developing a computerized information system for physiotherapy services within the NHS in England. The idea that there was an identifiable need for such a system to be developed specffically for physiotherapy services arose out of increasing requirements throughout the 1 980s and early 1 990s from government policy and initiatives. Important influences included; implementation of the Körner recommendations, a more business oriented approach and NHS Reforms; the clinical requirements of physiotherapy services and the continuing process of professionalization and managerial imperatives within the N}{S and physiotherapy itself. The principal method was an action research approach in which the researcher actively led the development and eventual successful implementation of a computerized information system for physiotherapy services. The research encompassed a reflective post-intervention evaluation using a conceptual problem solving framework, Normative Information Model-based Systems Analysis and Design - NIMSAD. Using this approach, the work was evaluated against three identified elements: The problem situation, the "intended" problem solver - the researcher - and the problem solving process. A supplementary empirical study was also undertaken using a national questionnaire survey to assess the use of computerized information systems by physiotherapy managers; examine their impact and obtain information on the views of physiotherapy managers about the use and relevance of such systems in physiotherapy