Abstract
Introduction: Climate change is set to profoundly impact community health and access to healthcare, particularly in rural areas of Australia, which already experience limited access to health services like physiotherapy. The implications of climate change on physiotherapy practice underlie the urgent need to prepare future health practitioners. Entry-level education plays a pivotal role in equipping physiotherapists with the knowledge and skills to address climate-related health challenges effectively. This study aimed to explore the perspectives, awareness, and educational needs of rural physiotherapists in Australia regarding climate change. Methods: A survey was designed and distributed via rural physiotherapist via social media using a purposeful sampling method. Data were collected between July and September 2023. Results: Thirty-one responses were received. While most participants recognized climate change was occurring, many did not perceive it as a crisis or an immediate concern. Some expressed scepticism about climate change evidence, often attributing their rural backgrounds as a source of greater climate-related knowledge than their metropolitan counterparts. Not all respondents believed physiotherapists should engage in public advocacy on climate change or integrate it into professional practice. Additionally, not all felt there was a relevance to patient care led many to oppose the inclusion of climate change topics in entry-level physiotherapy curricula. Conclusions: This study highlights a critical gap in the awareness and preparedness of rural physiotherapists to address climate-related health impacts. Integrating climate change education into entry-level physiotherapy programs is essential for fostering a comprehensive understanding of its health implications and the profession's role in promoting their communities need for adaptation and resilience. By embedding these topics into entry-level education, physiotherapists can better align their practices with evolving healthcare needs and contribute to sustainable solutions for their communities.
Recommended Citation
McPherson K, Myers C. Preparing Rural Physiotherapists : Addressing Climate Change Through Entry-Level Education. The Internet Journal of Allied Health Sciences and Practice. 2025 Oct 15;23(4), Article 25.
