Sana'a: A scientific day for people with disabilities was held today in Sana'a. It was organized by the Yemeni Medical Association of Physiotherapists in coordination with the Ministry of Health and Environment and the Medical Council.
According to Yemen News Agency, the event featured participation from several academics and physiotherapists and included 14 working papers. Topics discussed ranged from assistive devices and their impact on the quality of life for people with disabilities to the latest physiotherapy approaches for managing cerebral palsy. Other significant subjects were the psychological aspects of disability, modern compensatory interventions, and disability management.
The symposium also addressed issues such as healthy aging, disability prevention in the elderly, stroke rehabilitation, and strategies to enhance the independence of daily living for people with disabilities. Statistics on the prevalence of disability both globally and within Yemen were shared, along with insights on common musculoskeletal deformities and rehabilitation approaches.
During the event, Dr. Abu Al-Fadl Al-Muntasir, Head of the Physiotherapists Syndicate, outlined the significance of the event as a convergence of science and humanitarian duty, coinciding with the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. He underscored the transition of disability from a health challenge to a developmental and social issue in Yemen, emphasizing the need for effective interventions to prevent educational and employment deprivation among people with disabilities.
Dr. Al-Muntasir called for the urgent enactment of laws regulating physiotherapy and rehabilitation practices and emphasized the need for legislation focused on prosthetics and assistive devices. He advocated for the establishment of a General Directorate for Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation within the Ministry of Health and Environment, highlighting the necessity for quality control, expansion of physical therapy centers, and investment in specialized staff and equipment.
Furthermore, he praised the Ministry of Finance for exempting physical therapy centers from taxes, acknowledging their essential service. He highlighted the importance of prevention and early intervention through improved prenatal and postnatal care services, public awareness campaigns, and the development of national guidelines and standards. Dr. Al-Muntasir also called for collaboration with the private sector and academic institutions to support this national initiative.