Getting Patient Buy-In When They Don’t Want Help

Most patients don’t want to be in physical therapy—especially in acute care. That creates friction, resistance, and missed opportunities for better outcomes.

In this episode, Sid Stoddard breaks down a practical communication framework PTs can use immediately to improve patient buy-in without adding time or complexity.

Key Takeaways:

• “Embrace the suck” → patients are already frustrated before you walk in
• Patients don’t want PT—they want to leave or get back to life
• Use the “onion” approach: uncover layers before pushing interventions
• Always explain the why behind what you’re asking
• Adapt your communication style (wear different hats)
• This applies to outpatient PT just as much as acute care
• Small actions (like helping with self-care) build massive trust

Why this matters:

Better communication = faster buy-in, smoother visits, fewer refusals, and more efficient clinics.

Guest Links:

Sidney Stoddard

https://scholars.georgiasouthern.edu/en/persons/sidney-stoddard-2/