Understanding the Behavior of Physical Therapists and Occupational Therapists in Protecting Patient’s Medical Information - An Application of the Theory of Planned Behavior -
Purpose: The purpose of this study was to use the theory of planned behavior, past habit and moral obligation to better understand the behavior of physical therapists (PTs) and occupational therapists (OTs) in protecting the medical information of patients. Methods: We conducted a survey using self-writting questionnaires structured within the framework of the theory of planned behavior to understand to analyze information from 103 clinical PTs and OTs in their efforts to protect patient medical information. Results: The PTs and OTs’ medical information protecting behavior was 2.85 mean points. That point failed to reach 1.0 points. Behavior intention was 3.83 mean points. That was judged to be improved. Behavioral intention was closely correlated with behavior, behavioral attitude, subjective norms, behavior control, and past habit. Variables related to the theory of planned behavior, attitude, subjective norms, and perceived behavior control all explained 50% of the behavioral intention of PTs and OTs regarding future divulgence of patient information. The past habits of PTs and OTs were also a significant predictor in explaining the behavioral intention to protect a patient’s medical information (p<0.01). Conclusion: Revising the behavioral attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behavior control, and past habits of PTs and OTs helped improve their behavior regarding protection of the medical information of patents.