Retention factors for physiotherapists in an underserviced area: an experience in northern Ontario

The purposes of this study were to establish baseline information about the extent of physiotherapy (PT) retention problems in Northern Ontario, and to identify potentially significant factors for retention. Potential correlates of retention were grouped into four domains: personal, professional experience, occupational and environmental factors. The questionnaire was sent to all PTs registered to practise in Northern Ontario; a response rate of 82 per cent was achieved. Multiple regression techniques were used to identify significant variables (p. less than 05) directly associated with intention to leave Northern Ontario. Path analysis was also completed to identify factors with indirect relationships to the outcome measure. The most significant factor was the perceived opportunity for career development, results have implications for health care administrators and planners in their development of strategic plans to increase employee retention.