Student perceptions of outcomes from participation in physical therapy pro bono clinics: a qualitative study

The purpose of this qualitative study was to assess the students' perception of the professional impact of volunteering in a pro bono physical therapy clinic. Three focus groups of second- and third-year physical therapy students were conducted using a flexible guide of questions. Focus groups' transcriptions were coded, and themes and subthemes were developed from these codes. Four main themes emerged from the data: Core Values, Clinical Physical Therapy Skills, Professional Growth, and Community and Professional Connections. Multiple sub-themes also emerged. The development of a broad range of tangible and less tangible professional characteristics helps to validate student volunteer participation in physical therapy pro bono clinics.