Clinical Site Visits: Exploring the Perspectives of the Director of Clinical Education

Abstract

Introduction. Best practice in clinical education (CE) includes the formation of strong relationships through collaborative communication among all stakeholders. Directors of Clinical Education (DCEs) may establish this through a site visit (SV) during student CE experiences (CEEs) but several barriers to conducting SVs have been identified, including scheduling of visits, time, and cost. There is sparse literature describing the DCEs most preferred method of communication when conducting SVs. This study explored whether DCEs perceive SVs as important, their preferred method of communication used to conduct these SVs, and the reasons underlying these preferences. Methods. A survey of both scaled and open-ended questions was sent to 300 DCEs/assistant DCEs from Commission on Accreditations in Physical Therapy Education accredited Physical Therapy programs. The response rate was 41%. Results. Statistical analysis showed DCE preference for in-person SVs over other forms of communication while also rating them as “very effective.” Directors of Clinical Education indicated that the primary purposes of an SV are to nurture academic–clinical relationships and to exchange information. In-person SVs offer a more complete picture of the CEE and allow the DCE to observe non-verbal cues that are not afforded by other types of communication. The recent pandemic has caused a shift to an increased use of videoconferencing for SVs. The DCEs acknowledged that there is no “one size fits all” approach to the SV process. Discussion and Conclusion. Similar to students, DCEs prefer and value in-person communication for SVs but are mindful that clinician preferences warrant a degree of flexibility in communication methods and the structure of the SV. Videoconferencing may be an alternative during circumstances when an in-person SV is not possible. Future research in this area should explore the clinician perspective.