Variation in the Geographic Distribution of Physiotherapy Student Clinical Placements in Rural Saskatchewan

Area of Science:

• Health Sciences
• Physical Therapy Education
• Rural Health Workforce

Background:

• Rural and remote Saskatchewan faces a shortage of physiotherapists.
• Positive rural clinical experiences may encourage graduates to practice in these areas.
• The University of Saskatchewan's Master of Physical Therapy program aims to provide rural clinical placements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the geographic distribution and yearly variation of physiotherapy student clinical placements (CPs).
• To assess if the program's goal of providing rural experiences is being met.
• To inform strategies for improving rural recruitment of physiotherapists.

Main Methods:

• Geospatial mapping was used to analyze the locations of physiotherapy student CPs.
• Data from 2008 to 2016 were examined for geographic distribution and temporal trends.
• Analysis focused on placements outside Saskatoon and Regina.

Main Results:

• An average of 75% of physiotherapy CPs occurred in rural Saskatchewan locations (2008-2016).
• Significant yearly variation was observed, with rural placements ranging from 58% (2015) to 84% (2009).
• The intended goal of providing all students with a rural first CP was not consistently achieved.

Conclusions:

• The University of Saskatchewan's physiotherapy program faces challenges in consistently delivering rural clinical placements.
• Increased rural placements could positively influence the recruitment of physiotherapists to underserved areas.
• Further efforts are needed to ensure equitable distribution of rural clinical experiences.