Caitlin
Fitzgerald,
PT, DPT
Assistant Professor and Associate Director of Clinical Education - Physical Therapy
MGH Institute of Health Professions
Caitlin Fitzgerald, PT, DPT is a licensed PT and the Associate Director of Clinical Education in the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program at the MGH Institute of Health Professions (MGH IHP). Clinically, Dr. Fitzgerald was a PT and clinical team leader at a Lahey Outpatient Center.
She participated in the launch of several interprofessional and uniprofessional programs, curricula, and clubs. She was recognized as a fellow of the Teaching Excellence Academy for Learning(TEAL) at the MGH IHP, which recognizes excellence in teaching. Her career achievements were recognized when inducted as a Fellow in the National Academies of Practice (NAP).
Presenting at the Nexus Summit:
Background:Clinical education (CE) is essential in health professions education, with Clinical Instructors (CIs) playing a pivotal role in assessing patients and learners within complex healthcare environments. Microaggressions in this setting can degrade the belongingness of those from historically marginalized and minoritized backgrounds. Several in-the-moment microaggression response frameworks exist. Continued development of support mechanisms for debriefing between students and CIs is needed to foster growth. This project aims to create continuous dialogue and 'brave spaces' for…