Professional development and lifelong learning: the impact of physical therapy residency training in Kenya

Introduction: To assist with the professional development of physical therapists in Kenya, a post-graduate residency program was developed and implemented in the country. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to explore the influence of residency training on the professional development of physical therapists. Methods: The influence of the program on professional development of residents was explored through a mixed-methods research design, including a survey and semi-structured interviews with residents at program completion. Results: The graduates reported a positive impact of residency education on their ability to perform a comprehensive evaluation, utilize clinical reasoning, provide an effective treatment to achieve projected outcomes, treat complex patients, communicate with patients and other health professionals, perform overall patient management, and implement a treatment plan based on scientific literature. Four themes emerged from the interviews: 1) evolution of practice from protocol-driven to individualized treatment plans; 2) promotion of professional development within the wider physical therapy community; 3) positive change in physical therapy practice; and 4) commitment to lifelong learning. Conclusion: The residents expressed how their new knowledge and skills fostered their commitment to providing mentorship to colleagues and lifelong learning. This commitment can provide the framework for advancing the practice of physical therapy in their respective communities.