Objective

To characterize the workplace of physiotherapists in the public health sector in Bogotá, Colombia.

Material and Methods

The workplace is considered as a social territory where the daily lives of people in productive activities area take place. A qualitative and quantitative exploratory study was designed. A convenience sample of physiotherapists working in the public health system of Bogotá was selected and a previously standardized survey, with relevant variables on the workplace, was applied.

Results

27 customized surveys were conducted. Fixed-term contracts outnumbered open-ended contracts. The pay is low. Physiotherapists work mainly in healthcare management areas such as outpatient consultation and hospitalization. Postgraduate training is scarce.

Conclusions

Specific characteristics of the workplace of physiotherapists are described broadly and are compared to other studies. It is necessary to recognize the needs of human talent to contribute to the improvement of conditions in the workplace. Work standards for human talent in physiotherapy, working conditions and remuneration in public health institutions need to be developed.