From classroom to community and publication: Doctor of Physiotherapy students’ success
A recent publication in Physiotherapy by 2024 Doctor of Physiotherapy (DPT) graduates is testament to the strength and connection between Healthcare in Context and the Research Capstone subjects in the last two years of the DPT program.
As part of a Community Engagement Placement in Health Care in Context in year 2, and in collaboration with Goulburn Valley Health (GVH) and Going Rural Health (GRH), a group of DPT2 students explored the needs and challenges faced by rural health services regarding workforce shortages. The project was extended as a Research Capstone project in Year 3, where the team conducted a qualitative study to explore the enablers and barriers to recruitment and retention of physiotherapists in the Hume region. The team conducted interviews with physiotherapists and managers to better understand factors influencing staff recruitment and retention. The research found that physiotherapists are more likely to stay in rural areas when they feel valued in the workplace, connected to their community, and supported in both their professional and personal goals.
This paper is one of several meaningful outputs from our newly developed Research Capstone subject, with other projects leading to conference presentations, manuscripts in development, and practical resources for University and healthcare settings. In 2025, interdisciplinary capstone projects have been introduced and we are excited to see these collaborations grow across the School. It is wonderful that these initiatives are already having an impact not just for our students and staff, but also for the broader health sector.
By Dr Kelly Bower, Dr Tandy Hastings-Ison, Dr Rachel Toovey and Dr Debra Virtue
