Date of Conferral

8-5-2025

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Health Services

Advisor

Christopher Miller

Abstract

Healthcare professionals often aspire to transition beyond clinical roles into organizational leadership. In particular, physical therapists may seek executive leadership opportunities beyond rehabilitation departments. However, there is limited understanding of how nonclinical healthcare executives perceive physical therapists advancing into these roles. This qualitative study aimed to understand nonclinical healthcare executives' perceptions regarding physical therapists’ advancement to executive healthcare leadership positions. The study was guided by new institutional theory and Level 5 leadership theory and addressed four research questions to explore these perceptions in depth. A general qualitative methodology was employed, with data collected through semistructured, virtual interviews with eight nonclinical healthcare executives. Thematic analysis revealed that nonclinical healthcare executives generally perceive physical therapists as capable leaders, mainly when supported by advanced education, business acumen, and a strong commitment to leadership. Common themes and subthemes emphasized the importance of earning degrees such as an MBA or MHA to bridge gaps in business knowledge and highlighted key leadership traits, including communication across contexts, adaptability, and interpersonal skills, as essential for success in executive roles. The findings suggest that integrating physical therapists into executive leadership can reduce silos in healthcare administration and create pathways for other clinicians to advance. This study contributes to positive social change by encouraging academic programs and organizations to support clinicians aspiring to leadership roles and recognizing the unique contributions of physical therapists in executive positions.

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