Clarisa Martinez, PT, DPT, MS is an Associate Professor of Clinical Physical Therapy in the Division of Biokinesiology and Physical Therapy at the University of Southern California. Dr. Martinez’ goal is to transform healthcare by bridging the divide between clinical practice, education, and research. Her research interests include stroke rehabilitation, evidence-based practice education, knowledge translation and health systems research.

As a LeaRRn Scholar, Dr. Martinez will collaborate with Boston Medical Center (BMC) under the mentorship of Dr. Mary Slavin, PT, PhD. Her project will focus on exploring the impact of PT frequency in inpatient care. To achieve this, we will identify ways in which PT frequency can be measured from their EMR data and the relationship between frequency and key outcomes, including length of stay, discharge destination and impact on staffing. We will also consider the role of social determinants of health in patient outcomes.