Jamaican physiotherapist named among World Physiotherapy's 75 noteworthy professionals

Jamaican physiotherapist, educator and entrepreneur Dr. Bernadette Bryan-Frankson has been named among World Physiotherapy's 75 Noteworthy Physiotherapists, an international recognition marking the organization's 75th anniversary.

Bryan-Frankson was nominated by Gayean Johnson through the Jamaica Physiotherapy Association and selected following a review process and recommendation to the organization's Executive Board.

The 75 honorees represent physiotherapists whose work has helped advance the profession and expand its impact globally.

Bryan-Frankson, whose career spans more than four decades, described the recognition as one of the most significant milestones of her professional journey.

"To be recognized among World Physiotherapy's 75 Noteworthy Physiotherapists means that the many small decisions to keep learning, keep building and keep serving have, over time, added up to something significant, reaching beyond their roots in Jamaica to resonate on the world stage," she said.

She said her initial reaction to the news was one of "surprise and absolute elation," followed by humility as she considered the company of internationally recognized physiotherapists included on the list. Among them are Robin McKenzie and Kari Bø, whose work influenced her own professional development.

Bryan-Frankson entered the School of Physiotherapy in Kingston in 1978 and has since built a career spanning clinical practice, education, mentorship, professional leadership and entrepreneurship.

Her contributions include helping develop specialist rehabilitation services in Jamaica, particularly in pelvic health and lymphoedema management, while teaching and mentoring generations of physiotherapists.

She is the founder, chief executive officer and clinical director of Physical Therapy Solutions Ltd., a Jamaican-owned practice focused on providing rehabilitation services to international standards while creating employment and developing healthcare professionals.

Her work has also expanded into animal rehabilitation. After completing formal training in the field, she established Paws for Physio, described as Jamaica's first canine rehabilitation unit. She has also been exploring virtual rehabilitation services for human and animal patients across the Caribbean.

Despite the international recognition, Bryan-Frankson said she has no plans to slow down professionally.

"At this stage of my career, I am still motivated by curiosity, possibility and the excitement of seeing what can be created next," she said. "I do not see this stage of my career as a period of winding down. I see it as a period of extending reach."

She said the recognition also carries significance for Jamaica and the wider Caribbean, demonstrating that professionals working in smaller countries can make contributions with global relevance.

"Our region has knowledge, creativity and leadership to offer the global profession," she said, adding that she hopes her achievement will encourage younger physiotherapists to recognize that "where you begin does not determine how far your contribution can reach."

World Physiotherapy is announcing the 75 honorees individually between September and November 2026. Their contributions will also be highlighted on the organization's website and in a commemorative publication. Recipients will receive a certificate and medal, with broader recognition planned for late November.

Bryan-Frankson said she hopes her legacy will be that of "a trailblazer whose curiosity, courage and commitment helped move the profession forward in my country."