Self-referral in Physiotherapy: Promoting an Ethical Culture to Guide Organisational Practice

Abstract

Self-referral in physiotherapy, that is, a healthcare professional referring a patient to a private physiotherapy clinic in which the same professional has a financial interest, presents significant organizational ethical implications. This article offers potential solutions to this ethically reprehensible practice. In addition to focusing on legislative and ethical strategies, private clinics should adopt guidelines and formal activities to improve the ethical culture of their company, by involving owners, shareholders and employees.