Reconceptualizing the value of 'active' and 'passive' treatment classification in rehabilitation: A critical appraisal and person-centered treatment planning framework.

Abstract

Background The terms 'active' and 'passive' treatments are commonly used in rehabilitation medicine despite a lack of consensus for what these terms mean. This proposed dilineation has several critical flaws that question its clinical value. This professional practice paper outlines how 1) this categorization is poorly defined and misinterpreted 2) this categorization offers limited clinical value and may undermine principles of person-centered care. A non-systematic literature review is presented outlining concerns with the proposed delineation. We propose an alternative framework for treatment planning which emphasizes importance of both evidence and of patient specific factors. This framework emphasizes self-efficacy within person-centered treatment planning. Key findings and clinical application This professional practice paper provides several arguments for reconceptualizing how active and passive treatment strategies are perceived and implemented into rehabilitation medicine; which align more adequately with person-centered care.