Community integration as a key role of the rural primary care physical therapist: a qualitative case study

Area of Science:

• Rural Health
• Primary Care
• Physical Therapy

Background:

• Rural communities experience significant health disparities due to limited access to healthcare providers.
• Physical therapists (PTs) are increasingly recognized for their potential to contribute to primary care, but their specific roles in rural settings are not well-understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the unique professional experiences of physical therapists practicing in rural areas of the Upper Midwest.
• To understand how PTs navigate the challenges and opportunities within rural healthcare environments.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative exploratory case study design.
• Semi-structured interviews and field observations with five experienced rural physical therapists.
• Thematic analysis guided by Culturally Sustaining Pedagogy.

Main Results:

• PTs in rural areas function as primary care providers, demonstrating autonomy, care coordination, and health education.
• Therapists require broad generalist knowledge and practice across diverse settings.
• Patient-centered care involves respecting cultural norms and community integration is crucial for acceptance and effective care delivery.

Conclusions:

• Rural physical therapists are assuming expanded primary care roles to mitigate healthcare shortages.
• Their deep community integration ensures culturally appropriate and accepted patient care.
• Physical therapists are well-positioned to enhance primary care access in underserved rural populations.