Diversifying the Physical Therapist Workforce Through Holistic Hiring, Admissions, and Retention Processes

Area of Science:

• Health Professions Education
• Health Equity
• Workforce Diversity

Background:

• The Institute of Medicine recommended diversifying healthcare to reduce disparities.
• The physical therapist profession has historically lacked racial and ethnic diversity.
• The College of Saint Mary Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program sought to address this gap.

Purpose of the Study:

• To implement and evaluate strategies for increasing diversity in the DPT program's faculty and student body.
• To foster an inclusive academic environment reflective of diverse communities.
• To contribute to reducing health disparities through a more representative workforce.

Main Methods:

• Faculty recruitment involved a 3-phase process with a focus on diversity.
• Admissions utilized a holistic review, eliminating GRE requirements and incorporating virtual interviews.
• Collaboration with human resources and adherence to Association of American Medical Colleges recommendations were key.

Main Results:

• Faculty diversity increased significantly, with 80% identifying with historically excluded groups.
• Student cohorts maintained diversity, with 20-30% identifying with historically excluded groups.
• Equitable access to the DPT program was enhanced through revised admissions criteria.

Conclusions:

• Purposeful, mission-driven, and equitable strategies are essential for a diverse physical therapist workforce.
• These initiatives promote an inclusive environment and better address societal health needs.
• Diversifying the physical therapist workforce is crucial for mitigating health disparities.