Person-Centredness and Paternalism: The Dance With Power

ObjectiveThe World Health Organization advocates for person-centredness (PC) as essential for quality care, yet its definitions and interpretations vary widely among professionals. Most qualitative research on PC focuses on physiotherapists in countries such as the UK, Australia, and the US, where PC is explicitly emphasised. In contrast, the term PC is absent in French educational standards, and its promotion is lacking in the French healthcare system. This study explores French physiotherapists' conceptualisation of PC.MethodsThis phenomenographic study followed an interpretivist paradigm. Seven physiotherapists practicing in France were purposively selected. Data were collected through remote semi-structured interviews, transcribed verbatim, and translated into English. The analysis followed the steps outlined by Larsson and Holmstr & ouml;m (2007).FindingsThree categories were generated to illustrate the conceptualisation of PC by participants: Creating a relationship, Adapting the rehabilitation, and Giving the choice. Despite recognising the importance of these aspects, they also highlighted challenges related to paternalism and power dynamics, which often limited trusting relationships, effective adaptations and true shared decision-making.ConclusionWhile these physiotherapists expressed a commitment to person-centred practices, they encountered challenges in relinquishing power, highlighting the ongoing journey towards becoming person centred.