Perceptions on Community-based Rehabilitation by Physical Therapy Alumni at Doña Remedios Trinidad Romualdez Educational Foundation, Inc.:A Qualitative Research Design

This qualitative research study aimed to assess the perceptions of physical therapy alumni after participating in Community-Based Rehabilitation activities. Using phenomenological approach, data were analyzed from surveys and direct interviews with 10 participants from Doña Remedios Trinidad Romualdez Educational Foundation, Inc. (DRTREFI), Tacloban City, Leyte, Philippines, who were selected to gain deeper understanding of their perceptions and experiences with community-based rehabilitation. Participants included physical therapy alumni from 2019 to 2020 batch of Doña Remedios Trinidad Romualdez Educational Foundation Inc., who have worked in at least two barangays, managed three different patients, and gained over two months of experience in community-based rehabilitation (CBR). Study narratives revealed the importance of creativity in patient care. Through participation in community-based rehabilitation (CBR), participants developed a critical approach to managing their patients. After participating in community-based rehabilitation, physical therapy alumni became more open, sensitive, and mindful of their actions towards the community. This experience helped them better relate to the struggles of their patient, thus improving their initial perceptions of the patient-Physical Therapy relationship and enhancing their approach to providing health care in the community.