In this episode of the Better Outcomes Show, we take a look at a recent conversation on LinkedIn about the steep decline in occupational therapy (and physical therapy) school applications.

A post by Sarah Lyon raised an important question: Why are fewer students choosing OT, and what does that mean for the future of the profession?

In response, Rafi shared several factors that may be contributing to the decline — and in this episode, he unpacks those ideas in more detail.

What we cover in this episode:
- Why confusion about OT entry-level requirements (Master’s vs. OTD) is discouraging prospective applicants.
- How rising tuition and questionable ROI impact PT/OT’s attractiveness compared to other health professions.
- The role of corporate healthcare and private equity in fueling burnout — and how that shapes the profession’s reputation.
- Why other clinical degrees often carry higher compensation ceilings and broader leadership opportunities.
- What these trends mean for the future — and why this might actually be a unique opportunity for new students entering PT/OT now.

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