Exploring the Characteristics of Doctor of Physical Therapy Students Intending to Work in Medically Underserved Areas

Health professions educators, including physical therapist educators, are striving to be more socially accountable by graduating clinicians who work in underserved communities. To achieve this, understanding factors associated with student practice intentions is vital.

The purpose of this study was to identify characteristics of Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students associated with intention to work in medically underserved areas or with underserved populations upon graduation.

An exploratory descriptive study using survey methodology targeted first, second, and third-year DPT students.

A total of 201 students participated. Using a logistic regression model, two variables demonstrated statistically significant associations with the intention to work in medically underserved areas upon graduation: students who grew up in medically underserved areas and students who participated in service learning while in PT school.

Educators should use targeted student recruitment, admission strategies, and service-learning experiences to address workforce needs in medically underserved areas.