Physio space for Fife patients being used for storage claims
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That's the warning from the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy which claims that reports from across Scotland - including NHS Fife - reveal that services are re-opening and re-starting far too slowly.
And while many patients still can't get face-to-face appointments, rehabilitation facilities are being used for storage space and meeting rooms.
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Hide AdAccording to the society's report, in Fife "gymnasium space is being used for storage with no plans to return it, while physiotherapists attempt to offer rehabilitation in inadequate shared spaces with under-staffed provision".
The organisation is warning that during this second wave of the pandemic, physiotherapy will be critical to Covid-19 rehabilitation, helping patients recovering from fatigue, ongoing respiratory problems, deconditioning and poor mental health.
In addition, during the pandemic many non-Covid patients with long-term conditions have deteriorated, and now require more rehabilitation, alongside the ongoing needs of cardiac, stroke and respiratory referrals in the community.
Kenryck Lloyd-Jones, CSP Public Affairs and Policy Manager for Scotland, said: “The reports we are receiving from across Scotland are deeply concerning.
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Hide Ad"It seems that not only are physiotherapy and rehabilitation services being slow to restart, they are being moved without relocation plans, downgraded or undervalued.
"We recognise the challenges in health settings and the need to re-organise, but it is essential that rehabilitation services are prioritised.
“Changes require proper consultation, risk assessment and planning. It is critical that the rehabilitation needs of people are not forgotten.
A number of patient groups are also warning of a lack of investment and undervaluing of rehabilitation. While some rehabilitation is taking place virtually, physiotherapists still need enough space and equipment to run sessions effectively.
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Hide AdRecently, the CSP wrote to all regional health boards to urge them to prioritise rehabilitation as services.
They warned: “With the publication of the Scottish government’s rehabilitation framework, the emphasis must return to early intervention, reducing hospital admission, early supported discharge and improved outcomes.
"Musculoskeletal and community rehabilitation services are essential to this.”
NHS Fife has been asked for a response.