Physiotherapy in Bangladesh: Inequality Begets Inequality.

BACKGROUND: The demand for health services in developing countries often outweighs provision. This article describes the present condition of physiotherapy in Bangladesh. Physiotherapy is not recognized as a profession by the government. There is no single registration and regulation body. The health-related and economic benefits of physiotherapy are not felt by the majority of Bangladeshi citizens. AREAS COVERED: The burden of disease is changing, and Bangladesh needs a profession that specializes in physical rehabilitation to face these challenges. This article outlines the benefits to patients and the wider economy from a broad physiotherapy regime for all Bangladeshi citizens. It describes the many barriers the profession faces. CONCLUSION: Physiotherapy is efficacious in many post-trauma situations and long-term conditions. Economic evidence supports the provision physiotherapy as a cost-effective treatment which should be considered as part of the provision of a universal health-care service. Official recognition of the protected "physiotherapist" title and a single registration and regulation agency are recommended.

Profile of stroke patients treated at a rehabilitation centre in Bangladesh.

OBJECTIVE: Stroke is the leading cause of death and disability in Bangladesh. Rehabilitation services have not yet been integrated into the Bangladesh health system. Only a few non-governmental organisations provide rehabilitation for stroke patients. The demographic profile of these patients has not yet been established. The aim of this study was to identify and evaluate the socio-demographic data, risk factors, place of primary management and cost of stroke for those who attended rehabilitation at the Centre for the Rehabilitation of the Paralysed (CRP), Bangladesh. A cross-sectional survey was carried out among 103 conveniently selected stroke patients who attended CRP between December 2015 and May 2016. RESULTS: The mean age of the participants was 49 years. The majority (68%) originated from urban areas. About 85% of the patients had a history of hypertension prior to their stroke. Following the stroke, most patients received their initial treatment in a general clinic or hospital by registered physicians. Only 22% of the patients were advised to pursue follow-up rehabilitation services by their physicians. All patients interviewed in the survey received unpaid full-time care from their family members. The reported cost of rehabilitation was approximately US $328 per month per patient.