Leaders' Views on the Implications of Digital Technologies for the Future of Physical Therapy

Purpose: This study explores Canadian physical therapy (PT) leaders' knowledge of digital technologies and examines their beliefs about the ways in which emerging technologies will shape PT practice in the future. Method: We recruited 11 physical therapists with leadership roles at universities, commercial technology vendors, clinics, and regulatory bodies. We conducted semi-structured interviews and then analyzed them using the DEPICT model. Results: Participants were most knowledgeable in the use of telerehabilitation in PT practice. Participants believed there were opportunities for and challenges with the further integration of technology into the profession. Participants believed technology is increasingly pressuring the profession to change. A subset of participants believed the idea of professional evolution and maturity should serve as a lens through which the profession views the implications and further integration of technology into physical therapy care. Last, we found that access to care was a focal point for discussion of the integration of technology into the profession. Conclusions: The findings underscore the importance of further research and policy development regarding the maturity of the PT profession, with a particular focus on the interconnected issues of digital technology and access to care.