The future of physiotherapy in South Africa

Abstract

A brain drain in the physiotherapy profession is a cause of major concern currently among physiotherapists in South Africa. The main aim of this study was to determine the future plans of 2nd to 4th year physiotherapy students registered at the three academic institutions in the Western Cape for the 1999 academic year. It also aimed at determining the reasons why graduates chose to stay or leave South Africa. The results of the study show that an overwhelming majority (86%) of the respondents considered leaving South Africa following graduation. The reasons listed for leaving included gaining experience, financial gain and job availability. It is hoped that the results of this study will stimulate relevant role players to investigate means of persuading our graduates to stay and work in the country.