Warning over physiotherapy 'crisis'

A physiotherapy crisis is looming in Northern Ireland over the next five years which could have major repercussions for the seriously ill, it was claimed today.

Health chiefs at Stormont have come under fire over their plans that have been dwarfed by commitments made by other countries.

Tom Sullivan of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy warned: ‘‘We are heading for a recruitment crisis.’’

Mr Sullivan, policy officer for Northern Ireland, voiced dismay after the Department of Health identified resources for a 4% increase in physiotherapists by 2006.

Similar reviews in England, Wales and the Republic of Ireland recommended hikes of 59%, 51% and 100% respectively, he said.

Physiotherapy is used to aid the recovery of those suffering from strokes, recovering from brain injuries, the disabled, special needs children and the elderly.

‘‘We are very disappointed by this,’’ said Mr Sullivan.

‘‘Northern Ireland has higher morbidity rates and higher occurrences of people suffering from strokes and cancer.

‘‘There should at least be an equivalent increase here with those other regions.’’