OBJECTIVE: To describe the integration of imaging into Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) students’ terminal clinical education experiences. DESIGN: Descriptive survey METHODS: A web-based survey was distributed to clinical instructors (CIs) in 11 jurisdictions in which physical therapists (PTs) have imaging referral privileges. Survey questions investigated the CIs’ imaging referral beliefs and practices, along with interactions with students regarding imaging findings being incorporated into clinical decision-making. RESULTS: Of 132 responding CIs, 29% were unsure or responded negatively about having jurisdictional imaging referral privileges. Additionally, 28% of CIs stated referring for imaging was beyond their personal scopes of practice. Another 31% of those not engaging students with imaging discussions expressed imaging referral and acting on results were not entry-level skills with 27% citing inadequate student academic preparation. CIs identified barriers to integration of imaging into clinical education experiences including employer policies, concerns for offending referral sources, lack of CI confidence/training, and lack of communication from academic programs regarding student preparation. CONCLUSION: Interactions between CIs and students were highly varied with many students having limited imaging-related experiences. Multiple opportunities exist to enhance clinical education experiences related to imaging to better prepare DPT students for licensure examination and contemporary clinical practice.
Hazle et al. (Mon,) studied this question.