The development of a physical therapy service to treat urinary incontinence: Results of a RE-AIM evaluation

• Published in: Frontiers in Global Women's Health 2022-10, Vol.3, p.1004140-1004140
• Main Authors: Brosina de Leon, Elisa, Cardoso, Maria Natália, de Brito, Elorides, dos Santos, Maira Mendes, Almeida, Fabio Araujo
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: community health care; Global Women's Health; older women; pelvic care; physical therapy; RE-AIM; urinary incontinence
• ISSN: 2673-5059; 2673-5059
• DOI: 10.3389/fgwh.2022.1004140

BackgroundA conservative physiotherapy service development addressed to treat urinary incontinence for older women was studied using the RE-AIM (reach, effectiveness, adoption, implementation, and maintenance) framework. DesignWe conducted a pragmatic case study design based on RE-AIM. Settings/participantsIncluded women ≥ 60 years of age, with self-reported UI symptoms. ResultsA total of 34 older women were enrolled in the service with a mean age of 61.53 years. There was a significant improvement in the strength of the pelvic floor muscles, power, endurance, and fast contraction capacity after the intervention, however, it was observed a high dropout rate. Program implementation was supported by Physical Therapy teams who engaged in care coordination. The program has been maintained for over 4 years. ConclusionOur findings demonstrate that UI patients would benefit from physiotherapy treatment and that this intervention is feasible. This RE-AIM evaluation provides lessons learned and strategies for future adoption, implementation, and maintenance of a Physical Therapy pelvic service.