Rehabilitative Health Care Professionals' Perceptions of Appearance-Based Professionalism

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Professionalism
• Clinical Appearance Standards

Background:

• Professionalism in healthcare is multifaceted, encompassing attire and self-expression.
• Defining professionalism has historically varied across disciplines.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess perceptions of appearance-based professionalism among athletic trainers (ATs), physical therapists (PTs), and their students.
• To identify differences in these perceptions across professions and experience levels.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional, web-based survey was administered to ATs, PTs, and students.
• Participants evaluated 8 photos of ATs/PTs in patient interactions for professionalism.
• Qualitative analysis explored reasons for judgments, including attire, tattoos, and role identification.

Main Results:

• The majority deemed 7 of 8 depicted scenarios professional; one was widely considered unprofessional.
• Significant perception differences were found between students and professionals (5 photos) and across professions (2 photos).
• Qualitative themes included attire, tattoos, role confusion, and bias.

Conclusions:

• Perceptions of professional appearance are subjective and can lead to biased judgments.
• Healthcare professionals should redefine professionalism to align with contemporary social norms and workplace realities.