Lived experience of new graduate physiotherapists in the first year of practice : mentorship and program management

Abstract

The object of this qualitative study was to explore the experience of the first year of practice of newly graduated physiotherapists working in a program management healthcare institution, in order to identify the systems and strategies that supported them during the transition from student to therapist. Interviews were conducted with 8 new graduates and 4 experienced physiotherapists. The concept of support was explored with specific focus on the participants understanding of the mentor relationship. The study provides insight into the challenges and rewards of the first year of practice for newly graduated physiotherapists. The findings revealed a relationship between the availability of support from experienced physiotherapists and timely progression along a continuum of professional development in the first year of practice. Suggestions and strategies to maximize access to support for new graduates are presented which include the development of a formalized mentoring program.