19/12/2023
As we moved toward the post-pandemic phase, face-to-face transactions were reopened and preventive isolation ended, thus making the demands of health services skyrocketed. The Department of Health has undoubtedly been hard hit by the pandemic, however managed to attain the "new normal" and deliver health care to the Filipino family and community effectively. The HRH Deployment Program under NHWSS plays a vital role in the community from the time the COVID-19 spread, up to this day, services such as routine immunization, health promotion, and many more. Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation is one of the programs which focuses on the quality of life for persons with disabilities through CBR strategy.
This year, the PT program supports the MSWD in providing assistance to PWDs and senior citizens, and promoting inclusivity in healthcare. The activity pushed through in coordination with the SPMC Physical Therapy, and mobility aids were distributed to more or less 45 PWDs from Mabini, New Bataan, and other municipalities in Davao de Oro. The activity will continue until 2025, in hope to give more wheelchairs, walkers, and canes to those who really need it.
In January (2023), physical therapy sessions at the MHOs started, serving all clients with common types of physical disability after stroke, or manifest signs of any musculoskeletal disorders. The total number of clients who engaged in physical assessment and consultation, therapeutic exercises, pain management, and health education is 165. However, that did not limit the program to expand care in the community. The necessity to monitor non-ambulatory clients who lack access to transportation, or living in GID-areas surfaced. Actions were made to conduct home visit and modify home environment for reduction of injuries. Deconditioned senior citizens and adults benefit from home visits, and a total of 58 clients were visited and assessed.
Physical therapy professionals and organizations are positively seeking opportunities and new approach to improve individual and population health. The expansion of physical therapy practice in public health allows more accurate and efficient care, and facilitates direct intervention to client's needs.