World Physiotherapy Congress 2025 in Tokyo, Japan: Cara Whalen Smith Shares Research and Advances GRC’s Mission
- Cara Whalen Smith in the Tokyo International Forum for the World Physiotherapy Congress 2025 -
Cara Whalen Smith, PT, DPT, MPH, CHES recently traveled to Tokyo, Japan, to attend the World Physiotherapy Congress 2025—a global gathering of more than 5000 physiotherapists from over 100 countries. Representing GRC on her own initiative and at her own expense, Cara joined this international event to present her research and engage in professional development. Her participation reflects a deep personal and professional commitment to advancing inclusive health practices and aligns closely with GRC’s strategic priorities in chronic conditions, workforce development, and universal design.
Cara presented a research poster titled Disability Specific Knowledge, Attitudes, and Skills Among United States Physiotherapy and Other Health Professional Students, co-authored with Ann Robinson, MPH. Her presentation highlighted the importance of equipping future healthcare professionals with the competencies needed to provide inclusive and effective care for people with disabilities. This work aligns directly with GRC’s strategic focus on chronic conditions, workforce development, and universal design.
The Congress offered a unique opportunity for professional development and continuing education. Cara engaged in rich conversations with international colleagues, gaining insights into how physiotherapists around the world are improving care delivery and ensuring access to competent services for people with disabilities. These global perspectives will inform GRC’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its workforce and promote inclusive health practices.
Cara’s participation in the Congress supports GRC’s mission to advance health equity and community inclusion. By sharing research and learning from others, she is helping to shape a more informed and responsive healthcare system—one that recognizes the value of disability-specific knowledge and the importance of universal design in health services.
- Cara Whalen Smith, showcases her presentation "Disability Specific Knowledge, Attitudes, and Skills Among United States Physiotherapy and Other Health Professional Students." -