A recent review published in Physical Therapy reveals stark racial and ethnic disparities in rehabilitation outcomes, particularly among Black, Hispanic, and other minority patients. The study finds that these populations are significantly less likely to receive physical therapy following critical health events, including strokes, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and hip fractures. When they do access care, they often receive fewer sessions and lower-quality treatment compared to white patients.
Socioeconomic barriers play a major role in these disparities. Minority patients are more likely to have lower incomes, lack health insurance, or face difficulties with transportation, making it harder to attend physical therapy appointments. Even when therapy is available, differences in provider communication and implicit bias may contribute to lower engagement and adherence among minority patients. Research included in the review suggests that racial and ethnic minorities report feeling unheard or dismissed by healthcare providers, which can lead to worse rehabilitation outcomes.
The authors emphasize that without targeted interventions, these disparities will continue to widen. They call for systemic changes, including culturally responsive care, increased diversity in the physical therapy workforce, and better education for providers on implicit bias. Expanding insurance coverage and reducing financial barriers to care are also critical to ensuring equitable rehabilitation outcomes.
Addressing these disparities is essential to improving recovery and quality of life for minority patients who too often face preventable obstacles in their rehabilitation journey.
See: “Disparities in Physical Therapy Outcomes Based on Race and Ethnicity” (October 2024)
