PhysioUpdate 28th July 2022

Physiotherapy organisations welcome opportunities in 10-year Women's Health Strategy for England

The Pelvic Obstetric and Gynaecological Physiotherapy (POGP) professional network has welcomed the publication of the first Women’s Health Strategy for England, which sets the agenda for 10 years and was published earlier this week (20 July).

Kate Lough, POGP chair, said pelvic health physiotherapists would play a key role in the government’s long-term plan for integrated, gendered healthcare over a woman’s lifespan. Specialist physiotherapists were involved in all aspects of pelvic floor and pelvic pain conditions, which can affect women’s wellbeing in a significant way, Dr Lough said.

‘Building on existing strategies and influenced by women’s voices these initiatives will encourage women to access healthcare in a timely way and be better supported along the treatment pathway.’

Dr Lough added: ‘The role of the women’s health ambassador [a post filled by Professor Dame Lesley Regan] will be key to linking the government areas that impact on women’s health giving health, social care, mental health, justice and equalities a common goal.’

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World Physiotherapy unveils resources to support activities relating to World PT Day on 8 September

Physiotherapists in more than 100 countries are being encouraged to raise the profile of their profession on 8 September, when World PT Day is celebrated.

The event is held annually on the same date, marking the day that World Physiotherapy was founded in Denmark in 1951 by the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy and 10 other national associations.

World PT Day gives physiotherapists opportunities to

• showcase the significant role the profession makes to the health and wellbeing of the global population
• campaign on behalf of the profession and its patients to governments and policymakers 
• raise the profile of their profession

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Physiotherapy 'giant' had to battle prejudice over her height to enter the profession in the 1950s

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