Evaluation of therapy services with the Measure of Processes of Care (MPOC-20): the perspectives of Icelandic parents of children with physical disability

J Child Health Care. 2012 Mar;16(1):62-74. doi: 10.1177/1367493511423769. Epub 2012 Jan 13.

Abstract

The aim of this population-based study was to examine how parents of Icelandic children with physical disability view the services of physical, occupational, and speech therapists and how family centered those services are. A secondary aim was to compare the differences of parental perceptions of therapy services based on age, residence, and disabilities. Parents of 88 (46%) children aged 2-18 answered the Measure of Processes of Care-20 (MPOC-20), and six parents participated in a focus group interview. Descriptive data were used to explore central tendency and variability, and comparisons were made using analysis of variance. Overall, the parents found the therapy services respectful, supportive, and coordinated; they felt enabled in their parent role and worked mostly in partnership with the professionals. Nevertheless, parents perceived they received insufficient information from therapists. Parents reported a wish for more cooperation, teamwork, and a key worker. Findings indicate that the MPOC is reliable and easy to use within the Icelandic context.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Child
  • Child Health Services / organization & administration*
  • Child, Preschool
  • Disabled Children / rehabilitation*
  • Female
  • Health Services Research
  • Humans
  • Iceland
  • Male
  • Parents / psychology*
  • Patient Satisfaction*
  • Patient-Centered Care
  • Process Assessment, Health Care
  • Professional-Family Relations