Description
In this presentation, Natalie Beswetherick, the Director of Practice and Development at the CSP, reflects on the evolution of orthopedic and musculoskeletal (MSK) physiotherapy, emphasizing the transformative impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on rehabilitation practices. She recounts her personal connections to the field, sharing her training background at the Royal Orthopaedic Hospital and her early placement experiences. Natalie outlines the key themes of the presentation, focusing on the future of rehabilitation, the importance of emerging evidence, and the necessary adaptations to service delivery in the wake of the pandemic.
Throughout her discussion, Natalie highlights the rapid digital transformation that occurred during COVID-19, which led to the widespread adoption of virtual consultations, therapy classes, and rehabilitation strategies. She emphasizes the need for physiotherapists to adapt their skills and work in innovative ways to support patients, especially those affected by COVID-19. The transition from traditional rehabilitation practices to more integrated, community-based approaches is also a focal point as she discusses the importance of addressing health inequalities in service delivery.
The presentation underscores the necessity for a versatile and well-trained rehabilitation workforce that is prepared to meet the long-term needs of patients recovering from COVID-19 and other conditions. By advocating for a multifaceted approach to rehabilitation, including strong collaboration across health and social care sectors, Natalie stresses the importance of ongoing support and training for healthcare professionals to enhance patient outcomes.
In her conclusion, she urges rehabilitation professionals to embrace the lessons learned from the pandemic to foster innovation and adaptability, ultimately positioning physiotherapists as leaders in shaping the future of rehabilitation pathways.