Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital is experiencing a notable increase in physiotherapy cases, underscoring the rising significance of this field in Uganda's healthcare system.
"The hospital is now managing approximately 25 outpatient physiotherapy cases daily," noted Atwongyeire Night, a senior physiotherapist at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital. For inpatients, the numbers are even more substantial, with nearly 600 individuals receiving physiotherapy services.
This surge in demand highlights the crucial role that physiotherapy plays in patient care. Physiotherapy is vital for restoring movement and function, relieving pain, and enhancing the overall quality of life for patients.
The increase in cases at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital reflects a broader trend across Uganda, where the importance of physiotherapy is gaining widespread recognition. As more people understand the benefits of physiotherapy, its role in healthcare continues to expand.
The significance of physiotherapy is further emphasized by the Ministry of Health, which recently issued a circular advocating for the integration of physiotherapy into healthcare facilities nationwide.
This directive comes in response to the growing number of patients needing rehabilitative care, particularly those recovering from surgeries, accidents, or chronic illnesses like stroke, arthritis, and diabetes.
"The physiotherapy department at Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital handles a significant number of cases," noted Halson Kagure, the Public Relations Officer at the hospital.
"Physiotherapy is playing a crucial role in the recovery and quality of life for our patients. Our services are vital for helping patients regain mobility and function. They also contribute to reducing recovery times and improving overall health outcomes, which underscores the importance of integrating physiotherapy into comprehensive patient care," he added.
The increasing demand for these services highlights the broader acknowledgment of physiotherapy’s critical role in healthcare. In response, the hospital will participate in the commemoration of Physiotherapy Day on September 8, 2024, to raise awareness.