Exploring physiotherapy education in Australia from the perspective of Muslim women physiotherapy students.

Abstract

Background: Despite Australia's multiculturalism, physiotherapists from minority ethnic groups, including Muslim women, may experience social exclusion in physiotherapy training based on research in other countries.

Objective: Explore Muslim women's experiences of physiotherapy education in Australia and how these experiences could be improved (if needed).

Methods: Qualitative research approach. Data were produced through semi-structured interviews and analyzed with reflexive thematic analysis.

Results: Eleven participants were interviewed. Four main themes were produced: 1) omnipresent concerns about disrobing, physical proximity and touch in mixed-gender settings; 2) physiotherapy seen as a culturally inappropriate profession for Muslim women; 3) prevalence of an "Aussie" student environment; and 4) lack of systemic inclusivity. Suggestions to improve inclusivity, involved: systemically embedding measures such as alternatives for disrobing and proximity between genders; and promoting diverse social activities.

Conclusion: Results suggest Australian physiotherapy education lacks systemic cultural sensitivity for Muslim women. To reduce the burden for change being placed on Muslim women students, culturally responsive institutional protocols and staff training could be established.