Colombian physiotherapists in a practice in Lörrach

We are delighted for the team led by Sabine Rhein (second from the left), owner of two physiotherapy practices in Weil am Rhein and Lörrach. In early September 2024, three physiotherapists from Colombia started work there: Andrea Juliana Ortiz, Laura Torres Villalobos and David Tacue (from left to right). For us at TalentOrange, these three young professionals are the first physiotherapists we have placed with a private practice. Until now, rehabilitation clinics, geriatric facilities and acute care hospitals have been our cooperation partners for this occupational group. The three physiotherapists learned German up to B2 level at our language school in Bogotá. In December 2023, the practice owner met them in an online interview and chose to hire them.

With the help of the accelerated skilled worker procedure (beschleunigtes Fachkräfteverfahren), we were able to ensure that the Foreigners’ Office in Lörrach, the Regierungspräsidium in Stuttgart, the Federal Employment Agency and the German embassy in Bogotá worked together relatively quickly. Another positive takeaway: the recognition process takes only three months! The three therapists spend this phase at the practice in Lörrach, with professional guidance from the owner. Without Sabine Rhein’s commitment, none of this would have worked: to expand the practice, she found new premises and also looked for an apartment for the employees from Colombia.

At the moment, Sabine Rhein is working at the reception desk herself and preparing her patients for the new colleagues. “I explain to them that the training of the three new employees is just as good as that of Swiss and German physiotherapists. And I ask patients to speak standard German, not the local Baden dialect.” If questions come up, she joins them in the treatment rooms. Ms Rhein is a physiotherapist herself, as well as a sports physiotherapist, manual therapist, nutritionist, masseuse and medical bath attendant. Since her practice also works with professional and amateur athletes, evening and weekend assignments are occasionally necessary. “Here I experience great flexibility and a very accommodating attitude from Andrea, Laura and David. I’m very satisfied—professionally and personally. All three are motivated and committed.” Would she do it again and hire physiotherapists from abroad? “Absolutely—but only with a reliable partner.” Thank you, dear Sabine Rhein, and we wish you continued success on your journey, dear Andrea, dear Laura and dear David!

More information about recruiting physiotherapists from abroad: Recruitment – physiotherapists for rehabilitation clinics & rehabilitation centers