The Australian physiotherapy attrition and retention collaboration project: practitioner perspectives

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Workforce Studies
• Allied Health Professions Research
• Health Services Management

Background:

• Australia faces critical healthcare workforce shortages, particularly impacting physiotherapy services.
• An aging population, rising chronic diseases, and the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbate these shortages.
• National data confirms a shortage of physiotherapists, necessitating improved retention strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate factors influencing physiotherapist retention and attrition in Australia.
• To identify strategies for encouraging physiotherapists to remain in clinical practice.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining qualitative analysis of survey responses.
• Semi-structured interviews with 21 volunteer physiotherapists provided deeper insights.

Main Results:

• Four key themes emerged: retention anchors, entry barriers, attrition drivers, and retention strategies.
• Positive work environments, proximity to family, community ties, and career advancement are retention factors.
• Poor financial sustainability, limited career progression, and burnout drive attrition.

Conclusions:

• Physiotherapist retention is complex, influenced by both professional purpose and systemic challenges.
• Addressing financial sustainability, career pathways, and workplace conditions is crucial for retention.
• Strategies focusing on improved remuneration, career development, and burnout prevention are recommended.