Looking ahead to the role of physical therapists in Saudi emergency departments: survey findings and implications for person-centered care

Physical therapists (PTs) play established roles in emergency departments (EDs) internationally, yet their involvement in Saudi Arabia remains unexplored. This study aimed to explore perceptions of physical therapists regarding their role in Saudi emergency departments. A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among licensed PTs. The survey included sections on demographic and professional characteristics, ED exposure, perceptions of PT roles, educational background and ED-related competencies, and clinical scenarios suitable for PT involvement. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and regression models, with no formal response rate calculable. A total of 311 PTs completed the survey. Most respondents (69.5%) reported no dedicated PT services in their workplaces, and 71.7% had never evaluated or treated emergency department (ED) patients. Despite this, 69.8% agreed that PTs are valuable members of the ED team, and 63.7% agreed that integrating PTs into ED care is feasible within the Saudi healthcare system. Perceptions varied by gender, years of experience, and work setting. Male gender (β = 1.65, 95% CI: 0.75–2.55; <i>p</i> &lt; .001) and employment in military hospitals (β = 1.80, 95% CI: 0.05–3.55; <i>p</i> = .045) were associated with higher perception scores, whereas 6–10 years of experience (vs. ≤5 years) was associated with lower scores (β = –1.93, 95% CI: −3.19 to −0.67; <i>p</i> = .003). Exposure to ED-related competencies was inconsistent, as respondents reported variable levels of curriculum and clinical experience across differential diagnosis, radiologic imaging, pharmacology, and laboratory interpretation. Musculoskeletal conditions, gait and balance training, neurological and vestibular conditions, and fall-risk assessment were identified as the most suitable areas for PT involvement. The findings highlight professional readiness alongside system-level barriers, underscoring both the feasibility of PT integration to advance person-centered emergency care and the need for targeted education pathways and supportive policies for successful implementation within ED settings.