Transitioning from practicing physiotherapy in the Philippines to Canada has been a journey of growth, adaptation, and discovery. Each country has shaped my approach to patient care and professional development in unique ways.
Why I Chose Physiotherapy
I’ve always wanted a career that felt fulfilling and dynamic, one that involved working directly with people while making a tangible difference in their lives. Physiotherapy checked all those boxes. My initial interest in sports motivated me to start working with athletes back home, but the reality of the profession in the Philippines meant that I eventually shifted to hospital-based care. There, I treated everyone from inpatients to private clients and athletes in my spare time.
Though I enjoyed my work, I felt my growth was being stifled. Physiotherapists in the Philippines typically follow treatment plans prescribed by doctors, which left me craving more autonomy. I wanted to fully utilize my skills and take on greater responsibilities in patient care. I’m also a bit of a risk-taker, so stepping out of my comfort zone and pursuing licensure in Canada seemed like the next big adventure.
Practicing in Two Worlds
Physiotherapy is approached very differently in the Philippines compared to Canada. Back home, many people—even within the healthcare system—misunderstand what we do. Physiotherapists are sometimes seen as massage therapists, which can be frustrating given the depth of our training and expertise. Despite these challenges, the diversity of cases I treated, particularly in a tertiary hospital, taught me a lot about being resourceful and adaptable.
In Canada, it’s refreshing to see how much patients and healthcare professionals value physiotherapy. Here, clients often trust us to guide their care and actively participate in the recovery process. At Southeast Physiotherapy, I’ve experienced this trust firsthand, and it’s incredibly rewarding to see patients take ownership of their journey to better health.
Adjusting to the Canadian System
Adapting to the healthcare system in Canada has been a learning curve. One of the biggest adjustments has been the level of autonomy physiotherapists have here. In the Philippines, we typically follow a doctor’s lead. In Canada, I have the authority to assess, diagnose, and create treatment plans. While this can feel overwhelming, it’s also empowering.
Another difference is how involved clients are in their care. Canadian patients often ask detailed questions about their condition, treatment options, and recovery plans. This has pushed me to continually expand my knowledge and improve my communication skills to ensure I provide clear, comprehensive answers.
Patients and Perspectives
One of the most striking differences I’ve experienced lies in how patients perceive and approach physiotherapy. In the Philippines, physiotherapy is a growing field, but misconceptions are still common. Many people, even within the healthcare system, equate physiotherapists with massage therapists. While massage therapy is a valuable profession, physiotherapy involves a broader scope of practice, including assessment, diagnosis, and treatment. This misunderstanding can sometimes overshadow the expertise we bring to healthcare.
Patients in the Philippines also tend to take a more passive role in their recovery. Cultural deference to healthcare professionals means that instructions are often followed without many questions. While this trust is appreciated, I believe active participation leads to more effective outcomes.
In Canada, the dynamic is completely different. Patients are highly engaged and collaborative, asking detailed questions about their conditions and treatments. They want to understand the “why” behind each exercise and recommendation. While this initially felt overwhelming—especially when questions required additional research—it has been incredibly rewarding. Seeing patients take ownership of their recovery not only improves outcomes but also reinforces the value of physiotherapy in their lives.
Ready to prioritize your health? Book a no-obligation discovery now!
Take the first step towards scheduling your Discover Visit! It's easy to secure your spot.
Professional Growth: From Guided to Autonomous Practice
In the Philippines, physiotherapy often operates under the guidance of referring doctors. Most treatment plans are prescribed, and deviations require consultation. While this system provided structure, it also limited the scope of decision-making.
In Canada, I’ve been entrusted with a high degree of autonomy. Here, physiotherapists assess, diagnose, and create treatment plans independently. This shift has been both liberating and challenging. For instance, recommending a supportive device or planning a return-to-work strategy is now within my responsibilities. This has pushed me to stay current with research and continuously refine my skills.
Are you interested in how physiotherapy can improve your health? Book a Discovery Visit with Jollyn to benefit from her global experience and personalized care approach!
Advice for Other Physiotherapists
If you’re considering practicing in another country, my advice is simple: trust your training, stay open to learning, and be prepared to adapt. Every healthcare system is unique, and each brings its own challenges and rewards. By staying curious and embracing change, you can grow both personally and professionally.
Looking Ahead
My journey from the Philippines to Canada hasn’t been without its challenges, but it’s also been incredibly fulfilling. As I continue to settle into my role at Southeast Physiotherapy, I’m excited to bring my experiences, skills, and lessons from both countries to help my clients achieve their goals. Physiotherapy has taken me across borders, but at its core, it’s always about one thing—helping people move, heal, and thrive.
Book Your No-Cost Discovery Appointment Today!
We’re confident Jollyn will positively impact our community’s health. Reach out to discover how she can help you or your loved ones achieve the best outcomes.
Comments