Motivators and barriers to studying podiatry: latest insights

What is this study about?

The study identifies several key motivators that attract students to the field of podiatry. These motivators reveal not just the interests of prospective students, but also the values they hold dear in their professional journeys.

Who are the authors?

Michelle R. Kaminski, Glen A. Whittaker, Caroline Robinson, Matthew Cotchett, Malia Ho, Shannon E. Munteanu, Mollie Dollinger, Sia Kazantzis, Xia Li, Ryan S. Causby, Mike Frecklington, Steven Walmsley, Vivienne Chuter, Sarah L. Casey, Burke Hugo, Daniel R. Bonanno

Who took part?

Students enrolled in (i) podiatry and (ii) relevant non-podiatry health, sport or science programs at nine Australian and one New Zealand university, were invited to participate in an online survey. First-year podiatry students were also invited to participate in an online workshop. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics and linear/logistic regression models. Three independent assessors used inductive thematic analysis for the qualitative data.

What were the findings?

Here’s a summary of the findings, with the full study definitely worth reading.

Motivators to studying podiatry

1. Interest in a health-related career: Many students are drawn to podiatry due to a genuine interest in health. This inclination often drives them to seek out a profession that allows them to contribute positively to individual and community well-being.
2. Desire to make a difference: A significant motivating factor is the aspiration to have a positive impact on people’s health. Many students are looking for fulfilling careers where their work can lead to tangible improvements in the lives of others.
3. Opportunity to care for diverse populations: The chance to work with a variety of different age groups and backgrounds appeals to those considering podiatry; to engage with diverse communities.

The following factors were also considered critical in motivating student interest in podiatry.

• Job prospects after graduation: The potential for stable employment post-graduation is a significant draw for many. Knowing that a career in podiatry can lead to job security is an essential consideration for students.
• Ability to work in private practice: For those seeking autonomy, the opportunity to establish a private practice is a key factor. The independence that comes with private practice is often seen as a major benefit.

The study also identifies key influencers in students’ decision-making processes:

• Themselves: Personal passion and interest are crucial in students’ choices. Students often rely on their own convictions and desires when deciding on their careers.
• Parents and family members: Guidance and encouragement from family play a significant role in shaping students’ career paths.

Barriers to studying podiatry

Despite these motivators, the research highlights several barriers that deter potential students from enrolling in podiatry programs. Addressing these issues is crucial for attracting new talent to the field.

1. Lack of awareness of the profession: A common barrier is a general lack of awareness about what podiatry involves. Many potential students simply do not have enough information about the profession to consider it as a viable career option.
2. Negative stereotypes: Preconceived notions about podiatry can contribute to a lack of interest. Some individuals may view the profession as less prestigious compared to other health careers, which can discourage aspiring students. Challenging these stereotypes is essential to fostering a more accurate understanding of the role podiatrists play in healthcare; which the Australian Podiatry Association seeks to champion during Podiatry Week (14 to 20 October 2024) and beyond.
3. Limited understanding of career pathways: The current absence of clear information about the various career options within podiatry can also deter students. Without a solid understanding of what career paths are available, they may be hesitant to commit to a podiatry degree.
4. Limited understanding of job prospects: Concerns regarding job availability and career stability weigh heavily on students’ minds. In a competitive job market, doubts about future employment can significantly influence their decision-making process. The irony is that there are plenty of opportunities for podiatrists to explore, particularly given workforce shortages.

Suggested solutions to overcome these barriers

To tackle the barriers identified in the research, several strategies are proposed. These solutions can pave the way for a brighter future for the profession and encourage more students to enter the field.

1. Increase awareness: Implement targeted awareness campaigns that educate the public about the importance of podiatry in healthcare. Greater visibility can attract prospective students and inform them about career opportunities.
2. Address negative stereotypes: Develop initiatives to counteract negative stereotypes associated with podiatry, emphasising the diverse and impactful nature of the work.
3. Promote career pathways: Provide clear information about the various career pathways and job prospects within podiatry to attract potential students. Highlighting success stories can inspire confidence in prospective podiatrists.
4. Enhance visibility: Use media, school programs, and community outreach to increase the visibility of podiatry and spark interest among young people. Engaging with schools and communities can create a pipeline of future practitioners.
5. Support systems: Establish support systems for students, such as mentorship programs and career counselling, to guide them through their educational journey and into the workforce.

Impact of declining enrolments

The study also addresses the consequences of declining enrolments in podiatry programs, a trend that poses significant challenges for the profession. This decline threatens the sustainability of podiatry and can lead to several issues, which affect both practitioners and patients.

• Workforce shortages: With fewer graduates entering the profession, the potential for a reduced workforce becomes a reality. This shortage could compromise the level of patient care and services available.
• Increased workloads: Existing practitioners may find themselves facing increased workloads as the number of new graduates decreases; something many existing practitioners will already be able to relate to. This situation can lead to burnout and reduced job satisfaction among current podiatrist; as well as impacting patient care.

For further reading, refer to the full study.