Dr Kate Grafton, deputy head of Allied Health Department, Sheffield Hallam University talks to SANGEETA YADAV about the latest developments in the field of physiotherapy and the rising demand for skilled manpower
What are the latest developments in physiotherapyIJ
Physiotherapy is constantly evolving. New techniques and approaches are being developed all over the world and that is why it is important to keep in touch with the international community of physical therapists. As the profession continues to mature, there is likely to be an increasing demand for specialisms in sports injury, pain management, musculoskeletal manual therapy or the treatment of neurological conditions.
What does the work entailIJ
Physiotherapy is a demanding but stimulating profession. It is very satisfying to be able to make a difference to the speed of a patient’s physical and mental recovery. A physiotherapist needs to graduate from a professional training scheme which has been approved by the Health and Care Professions Council. It is vital to understand the theory and practice at an established training centre. Continuing professional development post graduation is essential to develop the skills and the understanding of the research evidence base required for high quality physiotherapy practice.
What are the skills requiredIJ
A physiotherapist needs practical skills to carry out the job as well as a strong academic background to be able to problem solve and clinically reason the best treatment for a patient. Essential for all physiotherapists are good interpersonal skills to relate to your patients, listening and communication skills to explain what you are doing and why. It is vital to build up a relationship of trust with your patients.
What are the job prospectsIJ
Physiotherapist’s work can range from children in schools, stroke patients in hospital, care for elderly at home, intensive care or GP surgeries to injured sports men and women. They can work in hospitals, charities, sports clubs, private and community practice centres. They are required in a range of hospital departments including outpatients’ departments, intensive care, elderly care, mental health and learning disability services and paediatrics.
What is the reason behind the rising number of women professionalIJ
In the UK, the majority of physiotherapists are women. The Chartered Institute of Physiotherapy estimates that about 80 per cent of their members are women, in the past the percentage of women was even higher. However, as the profession has become better paid and respected, it has become increasingly attractive for the men as well.
What is the scope for work in the UK for Indian studentsIJ
To work as a physiotherapist in the UK, you need to be registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). Sheffield Hallam’s BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy course is approved by HCPC and will lead to UK registration. Graduates may also become members of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy, the UK professional body. Physiotherapists who have trained overseas may apply for HCPC registration via an overseas registration route. A successful application is more likely if they have studied a UK master’s degree, as they will have a better understanding of UK physiotherapy practice.
How many physiotherapists will be needed in the futureIJ
Between 2002 and 2012, 3,514 Indian physiotherapists applied for registration with the UK HCPC, 27 per cent of the UK’s overseas registrants are from India. The UK is just one country that Indian physiotherapists migrate to. Internationally, there is an increasing demand for well-qualified physiotherapists and the skills they bring can benefit patients in hospital departments and community practices all over the world. The US Department of labour has predicted a 39 per cent increase in demand for physiotherapists between 2010 and 2020.
It’s likely that physiotherapists will be more in demand internationally as many countries have aging populations and people are striving to remain independent for as long as possible.
However, India has a significant need for pysiotherapists. In 2012, a report by Ministry for Health and Family Welfare identified a skills gap of 6.5 million allied health professionals and recommended that their role and autonomy be enhanced to enable them to effectively provide solutions to address some of India’s healthcare needs.