More physiotherapists needed in PNG

THERE is a need for more physiotherapists in the country, says Port Moresby General Hospital (PMGH) medical services director Dr Kone Sobi.
“Physiotherapy plays a very important in the care of patients in the hospital,” he said.
“It is time to look at the status of physiotherapists and take it to the next level.
“After an infection or after a surgery, you will require some form of physiotherapy.
“Physiotherapists help in the holistic care and rehabilitation of patients.”
Dr Sobi said this during the commemoration of World Physiotherapy Day in Port Moresby on Friday.
The event showcased physiotherapists from the public and private sector followed by free medical consultation services offered to the public.
“We are grateful for the physiotherapy staff we have at PMGH and we support the service they provide,” Dr Sobi said.
“It is time for us to look at recognising the standards of physiotherapy at the national level and also increasing the number of positions that are available for physiotherapists.”
PMGH physiotherapy coordinator Ruth Kemga said the event was significant as it was the first time physiotherapists, public and private sector gathered together.
Kemga, also the PNG Physiotherapy Association Southern region representative, encouraged all physiotherapists to promote their roles in the health sector of the country.
“I would like to encourage all physiotherapists to stand together and promote our role in the health profession,” she said.
“It is good to see young physiotherapists doing their own private practices in their own companies.
“Many of us are still looking for jobs and it is good that most of you are also providing job opportunities for other physiotherapists.”
Health Department standards division executive manager Vali Karo said that the department would help physiotherapists find employment in hospitals around the country.
“The department has recognised the role physiotherapists play and they have developed a guideline that will be part of the national health service standards,” Karo said.
“Now, most physiotherapists can be found at the PMGH and some in the private sector, we advocate for more hospitals to have physiotherapists on staff.”