Perception of physiotherapy researchers about patient and public involvement in health research design and planning in Nigeria

Patient and public involvement (PPI) enhances the efficiency, reliability, and relevance of research design. Although evidence supports its value, PPI remains underdeveloped in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly Nigeria. This study explored physiotherapy researchers’ perceptions of PPI and identified potential training needs for PPI implementation in health research in Nigeria.

This study included a convenience sample of physiotherapy researchers in Nigeria who met the eligibility criteria. This cross-sectional descriptive study was mapped using the INVOLVE framework and data on socio-demographics, perception of PPI and PPI training needs were collected using an online survey.

Out of 58 participants invited to this study, 50 (mean age = 40.85 ± 8.86 years; 64% male and 82% full-time physiotherapy educators) completed the online survey. The result showed participants favoured both collaborative and consultative approaches to PPI. Majority of the study participants agreed that PPI concepts were important in health research, particularly in identifying research gaps and setting priorities (84%), as well as helping to identify appropriate outcomes (94%) and recognising PPI as integral to health system improvement (100%). However, participants disagreed that PPI should be involved in data analysis (64%), report writing (60%) and disseminating results (44%). Eight-two percent of the participants expressed the need for training support in implementing PPI while the majority (98%) indicated a willingness to participate in relevant training programmes.

Physiotherapy researchers in Nigeria demonstrated promising baseline information on the perception on PPI particularly in research priority setting, with unanimous agreement for both consultative and collaborative approaches to PPI in health research. However, uncertainty remains regarding its role in analysis, reporting, and methodological specifics. The findings underscore the need for structured training and accessible support resources to enhance the effective implementation of PPI in health research within Nigeria.