Availability of trained neuro physiotherapists remains a significant challenge across the country

What factors do you believe are contributing to the rise in stroke cases in India, and how does this align with the unmet need gap in the neurology space? 

Several factors such as unhealthy lifestyle conditions including sedentary habits, poor dietary choices, and elevated stress levels, have become increasingly prevalent among the Indian population, heightening their risk of stroke. Additionally, risk factors such as obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes are becoming more common in younger age groups, further exacerbating the situation. Every 20 seconds, one Indian suffers a stroke, and approximately 60 per cent of stroke cases lead to disability. The aftermath of stroke often involves moderate to severe disability, including paralysis, aphasia, dysphagia, and cognitive impairments, necessitating multidisciplinary rehabilitation.

Globally, one in three people are living with a health condition that benefits from rehabilitation but in most countries, more than 50 per cent of people do not receive the rehabilitation services they require, and World Health Organization’s Rehabilitation 2030 initiative is a call for action to bridge the gap. In India specifically, the burden of neurological disorders requiring rehabilitation is even more, reflecting the urgent need to address unmet needs in rehabilitation. In India, metropolitan cities such as New Delhi, Mumbai, etc., have excellent healthcare facilities, specialised doctors, and modern medications available for the treatment of stroke or other neurological conditions. Unfortunately, post-discharge rehabilitation care is what is profoundly lacking, and the burden of their care falls on immediate family members and close friends. With very few patients receiving comprehensive speech, physical and occupational therapy, neurological outcomes are poor, which adds to the disease burden.

Can you discuss the current state of availability and accessibility of trained neurophysiotherapists in India? What challenges exist in bridging this gap? 

In recent years, India has seen a growing recognition of the importance of neurophysiotherapy in the rehabilitation of patients with neurological conditions such as stroke, spinal cord injuries, Parkinson’s Disease, etc. However, even today, many patients and even some healthcare providers are unaware of the benefits of neurophysiotherapy, leading to underutilisation of available services. In rural areas where healthcare infrastructure is underdeveloped, patients have limited or no access to neurorehabilitation services. The cost of neurophysiotherapy sessions can also be prohibitive for many patients, especially considering the prolonged treatment required for neurological conditions. 

Additionally, the availability and accessibility of trained neuro physiotherapists remain a significant challenge across the country. The number of trained neuro physiotherapists in India is inadequate compared to the growing demand. According to a report by the Indian Association of Physiotherapists (IAP), as of 2021, there are approximately 12,000 registered physiotherapists in the country, but only a fraction specialise in neuro physiotherapy. There is a scarcity of specialised training programs in neuro physiotherapy across Indian universities and institutes. This results in fewer qualified professionals entering the field each year. To bridge this gap there is a need for more accredited training programs in neuro physiotherapy to increase the number of qualified professionals. Institutions need to collaborate with healthcare facilities to provide hands-on training opportunities. Strengthening regulatory frameworks to ensure the quality and standardisation of neuro physiotherapy services is crucial. This includes setting guidelines for practice and continuing education requirements. Initiatives to educate the public and healthcare providers about the benefits of neuro physiotherapy could increase demand and support for these services.

 While there is growing recognition of the role of neuro physiotherapy in improving patient outcomes, significant challenges remain in ensuring its availability and accessibility across India. Addressing these challenges requires a concerted effort from healthcare providers, educators, policymakers, and the community to bridge the gap and provide equitable access to quality neuro physiotherapy services.

How does the discrepancy between the need for well-equipped rehabilitation centres and their actual availability impact patient outcomes post-stroke? 

Stroke remains a significant public health concern globally, including in India, where the burden of stroke-related disabilities is substantial. The effectiveness of rehabilitation in stroke recovery depends heavily on access to well-equipped rehabilitation centres. However, the current state in India reveals a notable gap between the need for such facilities and their actual availability, which significantly impacts patient outcomes.

Rehabilitation centres in India are scanty and vary widely in terms of equipment, staffing, expertise and comprehensiveness. The lack of nearby rehabilitation centres often results in delayed initiation of rehabilitation services following a stroke. Effective stroke rehabilitation requires access to specialised equipment such as robotic devices for gait training, functional electrical stimulation, and virtual reality systems, among others. These technologies aid in targeted rehabilitation exercises that improve motor function and independence. India faces a shortage of trained rehabilitation professionals, including physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and speech therapists. This shortage limits the intensity and quality of rehabilitation services provided, impacting long-term recovery outcomes.

Addressing this gap requires a multifaceted approach involving infrastructure development, workforce training, and innovative healthcare delivery models. By improving access to timely and comprehensive rehabilitation services, India can enhance stroke recovery outcomes and reduce the long-term burden of stroke-related disabilities. Lupin’s Atharv Ability Neurorehabilitation Center aims to enhance stroke recovery outcomes by delivering comprehensive rehabilitation services tailored to individual needs delivered by trained rehab experts. We recognize the importance of holistic care and strive to offer a one-stop solution for stroke survivors, ensuring they receive the quality therapy they need to regain function and enhance their quality of life.

What led to the decision to establish Atharv Ability, and how does it address the unmet needs of stroke patients in terms of quality therapy and affordability? 

Lupin recognised the critical gap in neurorehabilitation services and saw it as an opportunity to make a meaningful impact on patient health outcomes. Atharv Ability was launched as a world-class neurological rehabilitation care committed to improving the quality of life for post-stroke patients and other patients with neuro disabilities.Through comprehensive rehabilitation programs, Atharv Ability addresses the diverse needs of patients with traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury and pediatric neurological disorders. Located in Mumbai’s Bandra Kurla Complex, Atharv Ability spans 12,000 square feet, with a team of 25 trained doctors and physiotherapists. The centre strives to offer the best clinical practice and care, ensuring convenience and accessibility for patients.

Key differentiators such as end effector technology, dedicated home environment simulation space, aqua therapy, paediatric sensory room, and pneumatic gym, among others, set Atharv Ability apart as a state-of-the-art neurorehabilitation centre. By providing quality therapy and innovative solutions at an affordable price, Atharv Ability aims to empower patients to regain their independence and reintegrate into daily life with confidence and dignity. Within a year of its launch team, Atharv Ability has conducted almost 30,000 neurotherapy sessions, helping patients resume their lives.

Could you elaborate on how Atharv Ability fits into Lupin’s broader vision of becoming an integrated healthcare provider focused on improving patient health outcomes? 

Atharv Ability embodies Lupin’s vision of becoming an integrated healthcare provider focused on enhancing patient health outcomes. Our multidisciplinary approach, coupled with well-structured rehabilitation programs and a team of qualified experts, ensures that patients receive the highest quality of care under one roof. Through empathy and a patient-centric approach, Atharv Ability aligns perfectly with Lupin’s broader mission of transforming lives through innovative healthcare solutions. Ever since the launch of Atharv Ability’s first centre in BKC, Mumbai; it has touched the lives of over 5000 patients. In the coming months, we will also be launching a centre in Hyderabad, followed by Delhi. Our mission is that Atharv Ability must be accessible to every patient with neuro disability!

 

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