title: Student perceptions of outcomes from participation in physical therapy pro bono clinics: a qualitative study.
abstract: The purpose of this qualitative study was to assess the students' perception of the professional impact of volunteering in a pro bono physical therapy clinic. Three focus groups of second- and third-year physical therapy students were conducted using a flexible guide of questions. Focus groups' transcriptions were coded, and themes and subthemes were developed from these codes. Four main themes emerged from the data: Core Values, Clinical Physical Therapy Skills, Professional Growth, and Community and Professional Connections. Multiple sub-themes also emerged. The development of a broad range of tangible and less tangible professional characteristics helps to validate student volunteer participation in physical therapy pro bono clinics.
authors.affiliation: Physical Therapy Department, Grand Valley State University, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, USA. sticklel@gvsu.edu
authors.forename: Laurie
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Stickler
authors.forename: Cynthia
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Grapczynski
authors.forename: John
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Ritch
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D017144:Focus Groups; D007722:Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008824:Michigan; D026761:Physical Therapy Specialty / Q000193:education*; D036301:Qualitative Research; D013334:Students / Q000523:psychology*; D017664:Uncompensated Care; D055815:Young Adult