President Duterte has declared July 17 of every year as the “National Physiatry Day” to raise awareness and encourage support for an increasing number of patients with rehabilitation needs.
In Proclamation No. 1017, the President directed the Department of Health (DOH) to promote the day of physiatry, also known as physical medicine and rehabilitation, and identify programs and activities for the annual observance.
The proclamation noted that physiatry is a branch of medicine that focuses on the diagnosis, treatment and management of patients with musculoskeletal, neurological, cardiovascular, pulmonary and other systems disorders. It aims to enhance, restore and optimize function and quality of life and prevent the loss of ability to function through physical therapy, speech pathology, occupational therapy and medication, among others.
At present, stroke and low back pain are among the leading causes of acquired disability in the country. The number of patients undergoing rehabilitation medicine assessment and management, mostly in Metro Manila, has "greatly increased" in the last four decades, according to the President’s latest proclamation.
"Given the growing number of patients with rehabilitation needs in the country, there is a need to strengthen support in providing accessible and affordable medication and rehabilitation to them by raising awareness and encouraging collaboration among relevant stakeholders," the proclamation read.
The proclamation also cited that in 2018, the World Health Organization bared that musculoskeletal conditions are the second largest contributor to disability in persons worldwide. These conditions can cause reduced ability to participate in social roles, early retirement from work, and decreased accumulated wealth.
The President has asked the health department to coordinate with concerned non-government organizations and professional groups on the observance of the National Physiatry Day. Government agencies, including government -owned or -controlled corporations and state universities and colleges, have also been directed to participate in the activities.
Local government units are also encouraged to cooperate with the DOH in advocating and implementing the relevant programs.
The proclamation was signed by the President Thursday and released by the Palace on Friday.