Addressing Vulnerability Created by Health Systems: Establishing Professional Order and Standards for Physiotherapists as Content Writers Physiotherapists face numerous vulnerability situations within the healthcare system, such as professional uncertain

:

physiotherapists: Essential Caregivers in an Aging society Facing Increasing Vulnerabilities

Former member of teh National Ethics Advisory Committee (CCNE), Professor Régis Aubry, a specialist in geriatrics and research, highlights the need for a thorough assessment of vulnerability and interdisciplinary support for those affected. he emphasizes the integral role of physiotherapists within this approach.

Professor aubry, a hospital-university doctor specializing in palliative care and geriatrics, and professor of medicine at the University of Burgundy-Franche-Comté, recently completed his presidency of the National ethics Advisory Committee (CCNE). The committee published opinion 148,focusing on ethical issues related too vulnerability in the context of medical progress and healthcare system limitations. He is also the president of the Institute for the Prevention of Health-Related Vulnerabilities (IPVS), co-created with Professor France Mourey in 2023. He shared these reflections at the June seminar of the National Council of the Order of Kinesitherapists (CNOMK), recognizing the particularly vulnerable populations that physiotherapists serve, including those with disabilities and residents of long-term care facilities (EHPAD).

Physiotherapy Under Threat in Long-Term Care

Pascale mathieu, President of the National Council of the Order of Kinesitherapists, raised concerns about a worrying trend: some EHPAD, operating under global funding models, are reducing or eliminating physiotherapy services to cut costs. She stressed the possibly devastating consequences, particularly highlighted during the COVID-19 crisis, when physiotherapists where barred from EHPAD facilities and witnessed a meaningful decline in residents’ health. “When a doctor, nurse, or nursing assistant is missing, it’s noticed. But when physiotherapy is removed, deterioration is often attributed to old age, when it could have been prevented,” Mathieu lamented.

Addressing the Complexities of Vulnerability and Medical Progress

Professor Aubry explained that the IPVS was born from observing a “gray zone” created by advancements in healthcare. While medical and scientific progress have brought significant benefits, they also create new sequelae and disabilities. Coupled with an aging population and the increasing prevalence of neuro-evolutive diseases, this generates unprecedented ethical questions. Consequently, more and more individuals experience vulnerabilities related to their health. “Medicine can, therefore, be a cause of suffering and vulnerability, regardless of age or pathology.”

Identifying and Supporting Vulnerable Individuals

Vulnerability is a multifaceted concept encompassing physical limitations, psychological distress, social isolation, and a mismatch between an individual’s needs and their surroundings. This can lead to a diminished sense of self and exclusion. Professor Aubry emphasized the importance of recognizing “invisible” vulnerabilities, such as chronic fatigue experienced by cancer survivors, wich can hinder their reintegration into personal and professional life. The IPVS aims to address the lack of reliable data on vulnerability and to provide appropriate support for those affected, advocating for a societal duty of solidarity.

The core message is a shift in language: instead of referring to “vulnerable people,” Professor Aubry advocates for speaking of “people experiencing vulnerability.” This subtle change reflects a focus on the situation rather than defining individuals by their vulnerability. This approach underscores the need for comprehensive assessment and tailored solutions, and it highlights the critical role of professionals like physiotherapists in promoting well-being and quality of life for an increasingly vulnerable population.

How can formalizing content writing skills help physiotherapists navigate scope of practice ambiguity?

Addressing Vulnerability in Healthcare: Empowering Physiotherapists as Content Writers

The modern healthcare landscape presents unique vulnerabilities for physiotherapists – from navigating evolving professional roles to the critical need for standardized documentation. Recognizing physiotherapists’ inherent skills in communication adn detailed observation, and formally integrating content writing into their professional scope, is a powerful step towards bolstering their position and improving overall patient care. This isn’t about adding tasks; it’s about acknowledging existing capabilities and providing a framework for their optimal utilization.

The Core Vulnerabilities Physiotherapists Face

Several factors contribute to professional vulnerability within the healthcare system. These include:

Scope of Practice Ambiguity: Defining the precise boundaries of physiotherapy practice can be challenging, leading to overlap with other healthcare professions and potential disputes over responsibilities.

Documentation Burden: Detailed and accurate patient documentation is essential, yet