Training needs of clinical physical therapists in provinces of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Sindh, Pakistan: A cross-sectional survey

Background Continuous Professional Development is essential for maintaining competency among physical therapists in evolving healthcare systems. Identifying clinicians perceived training needs is crucial for targeted educational programs; however, evidence on factors influencing these needs across professional domains remains limited. Objective This study was conducted to assess the perceived training needs of physical therapists across multiple professional domains and examine whether demographic and professional characteristics predict these needs. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted among practicing physical therapists from two major provinces of Pakistan. Training needs across research, communication, administration, management, and clinical tasks were assessed using the Hennessy-Hicks Training Needs Analysis questionnaire. Responses were classified as Not Required, No Need, or Need. Multinomial logistic regression examined the effects of gender, experience, position, and specialty, with odds ratios (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) reported. Results Importance scores (5.02–6.28) were high, while performance scores (1.91–4.81) were lower, producing notable gaps (0.26–4.37). High training needs were identified in research appraisal, amputation management, health promotion, wheelchair prescription, gait training, and administrative tasks, with the largest gap in administration (4.37). Most competencies showed low gaps, while ICU management was borderline; IPA confirmed priority areas in the “Concentrate Here” quadrant. Regression analysis showed limited predictive effects ( p > 0.05), except senior position reducing research training need (OR = 0.111, p = 0.040). Less experienced therapists showed higher need in administration and management domains. Conclusion Training needs vary across domains and are primarily influenced by experience and role. Early-career therapists require greater support, highlighting the need for targeted professional development and leadership training. Highlights In Pakistan, eight out of 30 physical therapy competencies were found to have high training needs. Therapists working with patients, gaps were found in evaluating research, amputees care and clubfoot management, analyzing gait, wheelchairs prescriptions, and administrative skills. Borderline training was needed for skills related to the ICU. Less experienced therapist's revealed greater training requirements in administrative and management domains. The findings revealed necessity for professional growth, curriculum reforms, and national frameworks to standardize competencies and enhance rehabilitation services.