Exploring Career Prospects and Opportunities in Community Physiotherapy from Multiple Stakeholders Perspectives: A Qualitative Study

The research study titled Exploring career prospects and opportunities  in community physiotherapy from multiple stakeholders perspectives is a qualitative investigation aimed at understanding how different groups perceive community physiotherapy  as a career path in India. Physiotherapy, while globally recognized and expanding in scope, has seen limited awareness and acknowledgment of its community-based practice, especially in developing nations like India. Community physiotherapy includes preventive, promotive, curative, and rehabilitative care delivered outside hospital settings, often in home or outreach contexts. Despite its critical role in enhancing quality of life and addressing chronic, disability-related, and age-associated health issues, Community is often overlooked by students who typically gravitate toward musculoskeletal or sports physiotherapy due to clearer career pathways and greater professional exposure. The study recognizes that a lack of defined opportunities, poor integration into healthcare systems, and insufficient curriculum support contribute to community physiotherapy being perceived as a less viable career.

 It emphasizes the need to explore perspectives from a broad range of stakeholders including physiotherapy students, academicians, medical officers, government authorities, private and public health administrators, NGO leaders, and patients. The research seeks to identify facilitators, barriers, and suggestions to improve awareness, job opportunities, and professional growth in community physiotherapy . Adopting a phenomenological qualitative approach, the study involves focused group discussions and semi-structured interviews with 60–70 participants, using thematic analysis to derive patterns of perception.

 The aim is to understand both shared and divergent views across stakeholder groups, which will inform educational reforms, policy enhancements, and advocacy efforts. The study intends to recommend actionable strategies such as better mentorship, curriculum redesign, and inter-professional collaboration to elevate community Physiotherapy standing as a mainstream and attractive career choice. By documenting these perspectives, the study aspires to bridge the gap between academic preparation and real-world career viability in community physiotherapy, ultimately contributing to a more inclusive and effective healthcare system.