Whitney Bartley, DPT, DHSc, PT

Professional Background

Whitney Bartley, DPT, DHSc, PT, is a clinical assistant professor in the Department of Physical Therapy, Rehabilitation Science, and Athletic Training at KU Medical Center. She joined the faculty of the School of Health Professions in April 2026. She coordinates and teaches coursework in pediatrics, pathophysiology and medical imaging in KU's doctoral program in physical therapy. In her role, she also provides guidance and mentorship to physical therapy students while contributing to curriculum development focused on preparing students for contemporary clinical practice.

With more than 15 years of clinical experience in acute care, pediatrics and pelvic health, Bartley specializes in working with medically complex patients across the lifespan. She brings real world clinical examples into the classroom and is intentional about helping students connect foundational science and systems-based concepts to day-to-day clinical decision making. Her teaching emphasizes diagnostic reasoning, clinical confidence and the ability to adapt care to diverse practice settings.

Bartley's teaching, scholarship and clinical work focus on advancing equity and improving access to high quality rehabilitation services, particularly in rural and underserved communities. Her scholarly interests include health disparities, health literacy, and barriers to care in vulnerable populations, with ongoing work in women's health, pediatrics and chronic conditions affecting quality of life. She is actively involved in professional service and has served in faculty and leadership roles within the American Physical Therapy Association's Academy of Pelvic Health at both national and international levels.

Academic Background

Bartley received her doctorate in health science from A.T. Still University in Kirksville, Missouri, in 2025. She previously earned a doctorate in physical therapy and bachelor's degree in health science from the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, Arkansas. Bartley is certified in advanced practice in physical therapy in pelvic health and is a credentialed clinical instructor of the American Physical Therapy Association.