ABSTRACT
International electives in rehabilitation are typically undertaken by students in the fields of physical therapy (PT), occupational therapy (OT) and speech-language pathology (SLP). The clinical practice component of the curricula of rehabilitation training programs typically includes multiple on-site clinical education electives. Students in rehabilitation programs in North America may have the opportunity to participate in one or more of the clinical electives in resource-poor settings. Access to rehabilitation is extremely limited in many LMIC settings. Public funding is rarely available and services are supported by a diversity of international and local players, including for-profit clinics, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and churches. Patients in rehabilitation electives are typically adults and children who experience forms of disablement resulting from health conditions or injuries. The practice of rehabilitation in North America typically focuses on approaches that are collaborative and interprofessional. The therapeutic interaction often involves trust developed over time and a commitment to patient-centred care.
