Educating for Impact: The Imperative of Health Systems Science in Physical Therapy

Area of Science:

• Health Systems Science
• Physical Therapy Education
• Curriculum Development

Background:

• Health Systems Science (HSS) is a recognized pillar in medical education but underutilized in physical therapy.
• Existing physical therapy values (patient-centered care, equity) align with HSS principles for navigating complex healthcare systems.
• Lack of HSS integration may limit physical therapy's influence on healthcare equity, innovation, policy, and redesign.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate the systematic integration of HSS into a Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) curriculum.
• To provide a model for other physical therapy programs seeking to incorporate HSS.
• To highlight the benefits of HSS for physical therapist practice and health system advancement.

Main Methods:

• Utilized Kern's 6-step model for curriculum development to embed HSS.
• Conducted comprehensive content mapping across the DPT curriculum.
• Implemented intentional faculty development to foster understanding of systems thinking.

Main Results:

• DPT students now receive education situating clinical decision-making within broader healthcare structures, policies, and processes.
• Graduates are better prepared to contribute to population health, value-based care, quality improvement, informatics, and health policy.
• The curriculum fosters active participation in advancing health system goals.

Conclusions:

• Integrating HSS into DPT curricula is essential for physical therapists to remain relevant and impactful.
• HSS equips physical therapists to actively contribute to health equity, innovation, and system sustainability.
• A call to action for physical therapist educators to adopt HSS as a core component of professional formation.