Entry-level education for physiotherapists in Europe: a narrative on the relationship with professional autonomy

Objectives

To investigate if the length of entry-level education has an impact on the professional autonomy of European physiotherapists, and how professional organisations collaborate with educational facilities to shape the entry-level curriculum?

Design and participants

Mixed methods study using a survey and semi-structured interviews to explore perspectives from 37 policy experts from 37 European countries.

Results

In Europe, the length of education required before attaining the title of ‘physiotherapist’ varies between countries (3, 3.5, 4 or 5 years). The current European framework allows for recognised entry-level physiotherapists with either a diploma, a Bachelor’s degree or a Master’s degree. Regardless of the length of entry-level education, 26 of 37 (70%) countries reported that professional autonomy is not legalised for physiotherapists. Most of these countries (58%) have an entry-level education that prepares the physiotherapist to be autonomous. Most professional organisations (23/37, 62%) reported structural collaboration to shape entry-level education. However, the professional organisations in nine of 23 (40%) countries reported that they have a minor level of influence on the curriculum.

Conclusion

The length of entry-level education programmes, ranging from 3 to 5 years, is directly associated with the graduates’ readiness to practice autonomously. These findings underscore the need for a more harmonised approach to physiotherapy education in Europe. There is a compelling need for ongoing feedback mechanisms between practising physiotherapists and educational institutions. This will ensure that the curriculum continuously integrates emerging evidence and real-world practice requirements, thereby enhancing employability and professional efficacy.