Why did K J Somaiya College of Physiotherapy wanted to explore in the field of Physiotherapy?
Earlier, in my life I came across a physiotherapist who used to treat my mother for her back pain. Seeing the relief my mother got from the treatment, I got curious and interested in this field. I thought of this field of Physiotherapy as an access to get connected with people in pain or dysfunction and to help to alleviate it. After I received the degree and started working as a Physiotherapist, I saw other varied aspects of this field like its preventive and rehabilitative role. Consequently, we came up with this project.
What kind of career do students go for after pursuing the degrees in Physiotherapy?
After getting the basic BPT degree, the graduates can enter into clinical practice. They can start their own private practice or may join some clinic /hospital. They even take up home visits. For entering into teaching field, Masters is required. They can go abroad for Masters and for job as well.
What initiatives have the government taken in order to create and maintain a physiotherapy department in every hospital?
MCI has insisted that each medical college has a PT department. These days every reputed hospital has a Physiotherapy department attached. Patients are seen at outpatient department, as well as, inpatient department.
There being no statutory body, IAP has been instrumental in enhancing PT services by encouraging local branches in cities and states to improve services in their area. IAP is recognized by WCPT. There are now state councils regulating service centers.
Programs are run by IAP and its branches to sensitize common man and medical practitioners in the role of PT which has an impact on the need for setting up centers in almost all hospitals and nursing homes. Urban areas have good services, but rural services are poor and they lack awareness too, emphasizing the need of a central body to regulate and enhance services.
How are the facilities provided to students in K J Somaiya College of Physiotherapy different to other institutions?
We at K. J. Somaiya College pf Physiotherapy believe in excellence in education and service. The teaching and the non teaching staff of the college is committed to their work. Through regular feedback from students, the quality of teaching – learning is ensured. Students have library facility, even beyond the regular college hours. They have wifi, canteen, hostel and van service. Every student has a mentor from the faculty, and this mentor looks after, guides and keeps a track of the mentee’s overall performance, as well as, their physical and mental health. The college thus, has a safe learning environment and a platform for good performance. In addition to this, the harmonious structure of the new college building relieves stress and enhances learning.
What are your views about the need of growing more Physiotherapy courses with the growing demand?
With the urbanization and hectic, stressful , sedentary lifestyle, we are inviting growing incidence of physical dysfunctions, affecting overall quality of life. Physiotherapy has a role in all age group of patients and has a preventive as well as a rehabilitative role. Considering the growing need for support to stay healthy, pain free and functionally independent, we need more hands to heal and support those in need.
In terms of affordability do you think medical services of Physiotherapy can heal patients faster than other forms of exercise and medicine?
Physiotherapy in its preventive aspect is much more affordable, as it prevents a lot of health damage which could have otherwise happened. Many a times, regular, customized exercises alone can be an answer to improve a number of health conditions, thus proving to be cost effective.
