The 2021 American Hand Therapy Foundation research priorities survey

Background: In 1998, the American Hand Therapy Foundation (AHTF) surveyed Certified Hand Therapists and active Charter Members of the American Society of Hand Therapists to identify hand rehabilitation research priorities, guide grant awards, and confirm alignment with the foundation's mission. Purpose: The American Hand Therapy Foundation repeated the survey in 2021 to confirm that its award funding was consistent with hand therapists' research priorities. Study Design: Convergent parallel mixed method study design. Methods: The survey was sent to 7093 hand therapists from the United States and overseas. Respondents’ demographic information was captured using quantitative questions analyzed with descriptive statistics and weighted means. Research priorities and interests were captured using qualitative questions, Grounded Theory analysis, and Constant Comparative Methods. Results: A total of 397 surveys were returned and analyzed (5.6% return rate, 95% confidence level, 5% margin of error). Participants’ top research priorities were outcome studies and research grants. Tendon injuries and lateral epicondylitis were the highest prioritized diagnoses for further research. Intervention study priorities included hand rehabilitation management strategies and use of orthoses. Responses presented a need for funded outcomes research validating hand rehabilitation interventions. Level of interest in research participation was in data collection and as coauthor. Top barriers to participation in research activities were time constraints and lack of proficiency. Research education for clinicians and mentorship programs were identified as specific needs. Conclusions: American Hand Therapy Foundation research award funding was consistent with practice and reported research concerns. Participants identified their top concerns for diagnostic and outcomes research and prioritized continuing Foundation involvement in funding clinical research.