Kristin Bignell - Physical Therapy

MSc Candidate
Country of Origin: Drayton, Ontario Canada
Pre-MSc Education: BSc. Exercise Science, State University of New York at Buffalo

Current Research:
I am currently working on a research project evaluating a Rheumatology triage system at one of our local hospitals. Our project is looking at the role of an Advanced Practice Physiotherapist who triages MD referrals for the Rheumatologists.  It is our hope that the results from our study will both support and promote the Physiotherapy profession.

Why Faculty of Medicine?
There were three main attractions for me when deciding on The Faculty of Medicine at U of T. 

1. The professional versatility offered by a degree rooted in the health care professions is unlike most other disciplines and to gain that education at a world-class university was invaluable to me
2. The department of Physical Therapy offers the opportunity to do international clinical internships through several university-affiliated sites (namely Cameroon, Kenya, Philippines, Tanzania and Trinidad) which aligned nicely with my interest in global health as it relates to PT
3. Although an interest of mine, I had not previously had the opportunity to participate in research and the Physical Therapy program offered an in-depth research curriculum unlike any other.

Future Education Plans and/or Career Goals:
Upon graduation I am interested in working in both private MSK and paediatric neuro. With this focus, I plan on pursuing additional education in manual therapy, acupuncture, paediatric NDT and any other relevant courses. Additionally, I had the opportunity to do a clinical internship in Trinidad this past November and would love to go back and supervise future PT students. That being said, my areas of interest are not exclusive. It is great knowing that my degree will allow for a great deal of variability and professional versatility.

Contact Ambassador Kristin Bignell