PHYSIOTHERAPY is regarded as one of the most lucrative and white-collar professions in western countries with average salaries of $4,500 in the US and $5,000 a month in Australia. Relieving pain by magical skills and rehabilitation of patients are among hallmarks of physical therapy.

The importance of rehabilitation in this part of the world is yet to be recognised. In the wake of natural disasters, like floods and earthquake, there is a dire need of plenty of rehabilitation professionals. The core of the profession is treating patients with innocuous means.

Every sports team around the world has hired professional physiotherapists who are doing a great job. The importance of physiotherapy has been recognised all over the world. Professionals in the field of medicine specialise in cardiovascular, neurology, sports medicine, paediatrics, orthopaedics, etc. Many physiotherapists work within hospitals at out-patient departments, intensive care units, etc., where round-the-clock chest physiotherapy can be vital for keeping the unconscious patient breathing. So, this profession has a great importance in saving a life. But, sadly, the significance of this profession in Pakistan is yet to be recognised. There is a lack of awareness among people who do not know the worth of treatment without taking harmful medicines and by natural means through physiotherapy.

The government is not providing any proper packages for physiotherapists. Pakistani graduates are serving all around the world and are satisfied. But those in our country are frustrated. There had been protests in the past but they never gained attention of the authorities concerned. Lack of jobs, low wages and lack of respect is deteriorating the integrity of the noble profession.

Graduates still have apprehensions about their future. They are hired at low remuneration (Rs6,000 to Rs8,000 a month), which is less than the salary of a driver or the monthly income of a mason. This is increasing further frustration among new graduates. There is no job structure and there is a lack of well-trained teachers.

This situation is leading to brain drain as new graduates are going abroad for greener pastures. There is a lack of physiotherapists in hospitals as every department in major hospitals requires physiotherapists. The government should take action and provide grade 17 jobs to new graduates, and a proper job structure should be developed on the pattern of other health-related professions. It is time physiotherapists were encouraged and recognised for their bright future and a better output.

As the situation is worsening day by day, the government must take special measures to save this profession. Jobs should be created by the federal and provincial governments. Apart from the government, I request the media and civil society to highlight the need and significance of physiotherapy in the country.

A. HAIDER King Edward Medical University Lahore