Investigating the Perspectives of Preceptors in Sports and Exercise Medicine Clinical Practice in Ghana: A Qualitative Study
Precious Sena Komla Egbadewoe, Frank Appiah Kusi, Priscilla BotchwayABSTRACT
Background
Sports and exercise medicine (SEM) is increasingly recognized as a multidisciplinary specialty that contributes to the prevention of non‐communicable diseases, enhancing rehabilitation, and optimizing athlete performance. In Ghana, SEM education is emerging, yet its effectiveness depends on clinical training through preceptorship. This study explored SEM preceptors' perspectives on their roles, challenges, institutional support, and motivational factors.
Methods
A qualitative descriptive design underpinned by an interpretivist epistemology, was employed. Seventeen SEM preceptors were purposively recruited from hospitals, clinics, and academic institutions affiliated with the University of Health and Allied Sciences. Data were collected through interviews and analyzed thematically following Braun and Clarke's framework. Reflexivity, member checking, and audit trails were applied to enhance trustworthiness.
Results
Four major themes emerged: (1) conceptualization of SEM as preventive, rehabilitative, and complementary medicine; (2) challenges in clinical training including resource limitations, lack of formal training, and supervisory difficulties; (3) minimal institutional support, with weak coordination and calls for incentives and capacity building; and (4) motivational factors, where strong intrinsic drivers such as passion for teaching and student engagement were counterbalanced by extrinsic challenges including financial strain and inadequate resources.
Conclusions
In conclusion, SEM preceptors in Ghana are knowledgeable and intrinsically motivated, yet systemic barriers constrain their effectiveness. Strengthening institutional frameworks, investing in resources, and embedding experiential learning principles are essential to enhance SEM education. Incentivizing preceptors through recognition and financial support will sustain engagement and align SEM training with national health priorities.