Teaching and Learning About Patient Education in Physical Therapy Professional Preparation: Academic and Clinical Considerations

Abstract

The role of the physical therapist as patient educator is central to everyday practice as a clinician. Thus, an important question for physical therapy educators is how to best teach and help students learn about patient education in physical therapy professional education. This article draws on personal reflection and practical experience as well as current theory and research to consider how physical therapy educators can facilitate the development of competent patient educators. Lessons that can be learned about patient education by students in academic and clinical environments are described and explored. We highlight educational strategies and experiences, emphasizing self-reflection, in both of these settings that can make unique and enduring contributions to student learning about the multifaceted and complex process of patient education.