The Effects of Managed Care on Professional Physical Therapist Education: Attitudes and Perceptions of Program Directors

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of managed care on professional physical therapist education. The primary intent of the study was to determine whether education programs had responded to the changes in the health care environment by examining the attitudes and perceptions of the program directors. The need for this study was highlighted by the literature, which suggested that there are special skills and abilities necessary to practice in the managed care environment. One hundred eighty-two directors of physical therapist education programs were surveyed. The response rate was 46%. In addition, 10 program directors were interviewed in person so that issues could be explored more deeply. The study indicated that although the majority of the surveyed programs have made curriculum adaptations by increased integration of managed care and business concept into the curriculum, some programs have yet to incorporate these changes. Results of the study provide evidence that about one half of surveyed program directors reported deficits in their knowledge of managed care and business skills. Many program directors also displayed negative attitudes about managed care. The study results led to the conclusion that although efforts are being made to adapt to the changing health care environment, more must be done to shape the preparation of graduates of professional physical therapist programs to work in managed care settings.