This scoping review aims to investigate the integration of SDOH into Physiotherapy (PT) curricula.
A thorough literature search was conducted across databases such as PubMed, CINAHL, and ERIC using keywords including "social determinants of health," "physical therapy," "curriculum," "education," "integration," and "teaching methods." Boolean operators (AND, OR, NOT) refined the search, exemplified by the string ("social determinants of health" OR "SDOH") AND ("physical therapy" OR "physiotherapy") AND ("education" OR "curriculum" OR "teaching methods"). The search followed PRISMA-ScR guidelines for systematic identification and inclusion of relevant studies. Screening was based on predefined inclusion criteria: relevance to physical therapy education, focus on SDOH, and publication in peer-reviewed journals. The final selection involved a detailed analysis of the chosen articles to evaluate the extent and methods of SDOH integration into physical therapy programs. The comprehensive report preparation adhered to PRISMA-ScR guidelines, ensuring a systematic and transparent approach. Key findings were illustrated using tables and charts, providing a clear and visual representation of the data and trends identified in the review.
A comprehensive search identified thirteen (13) articles, however only one met the inclusion criteria for detailed analysis: "Instructing to Impact: Exploration of Doctor of Physical Therapy Education Instruction of Social Determinants of Health and Health Equity for People with Disabilities" by Herrman, D., Pechak, C. M., Berg, K., & Magasi, S. (2024). This study provided valuable insights into incorporating SDOH and health equity within the context of people with disabilities but did not comprehensively cover the entire curriculum. Additionally, it focused solely on PT education and did not address Physiotherapy Assistant (PTA) education.
The review reveals a significant gap in understanding how best to integrate SDOH into PT curricula. Despite the critical importance of SDOH in patient care and outcomes, current educational frameworks lack comprehensive integration. The included study underscores the need for systematic approaches to embed SDOH into physical therapy education and to include both PT and PTA program curricula.
Understanding and addressing SDOH is crucial for physical therapists and physical therapist assistants to provide holistic and equitable care. Integrating SDOH into PT and PTA curricula can better equip future therapists to recognize and address these factors in clinical practice, thereby improving patient outcomes and promoting health equity. The researchers recommend conducting more inclusive studies to explore how physical therapy education programs introduce, reinforce, and ensure mastery of SDOH in both PT and PTA curricula.
physiotherapy education
curriculum
