Cultural Responsiveness in Academic Physical Therapy: An Administrative Case Report

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Administration
• Physical Therapy
• Organizational Psychology

Background:

• A physical therapy department at an academic medical center sought to enhance its working environment following a significant sociocultural event.
• The department comprises over 100 employees across educational programs, faculty practices, a clinic, and research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the curation, implementation, and evaluation of a culturally responsive administrative support strategy.
• To foster a positive and inclusive working environment within a physical therapy department.
• To explore employee perceptions of culturally responsive practices through climate survey data.

Main Methods:

• A case study approach was used in a US-based academic medical center's physical therapy department.
• Interventions included supportive activities, educational opportunities, and community-building events.
• Annual climate surveys (2020-2022) analyzed employee perceptions using frequency statistics and thematic content analysis.

Main Results:

• 131 employees participated in the climate surveys over three years.
• Trends showed improved employee confidence in identifying and addressing microaggressions.
• Self-reported experiences of racial discrimination decreased, with positive trends in addressing colleague discrimination but challenges with patient-perpetrated offenses.

Conclusions:

• Culturally responsive interventions are linked to positive trends in employee climate and a shared commitment to cultural equity.
• Tailored interventions that deepen cultural knowledge, enhance self-awareness, and validate individuals are effective.
• Administrative leaders play a crucial role in fostering inclusivity through strategic actions and communication.