Deputy D-G: Longer lifespans pushing need for more OTs

PETALING JAYA: The increasing lifespan of Malaysians has led to a growing need for occupational therapists (OTs), Health Ministry deputy director-general Datuk Dr Jeyain-dran Sinnadurai said.

“Back when we had just attained independence, our focus then was to make sure that people did not die from diseases such as diphtheria and tuberculosis.

“Now that we are edging towards a developed nation status, the focus is to maintain the quality of life,” he said.

In the old days, Dr Jeyaindran said that once a stroke patient was discharged, the family was solely responsible for his well-being.

“Now we have OTs and rehabilitation programmes to improve the patient’s quality of life,” he said.

OTs, Dr Jeyaindran said, would work hand in hand with physical therapists to ensure maximum rehabilitation of patients.

Apart from helping them regain their physical ability, OTs would do house visits to ensure the patient was living in an environment suited to his condition.

“They would visit your house to see if you need grab bars and grab rails. They modify door knobs so that patients can have an easier time opening them. They would even modify spoons so that the patients can eat.

“They also visit your workplace to ensure you can go back to work safely.

“They will identify the modifications that need to be done such as ramps for wheelchairs.

“They will evaluate the best way to optimise the environment for the patient’s physical condition.”

On the shortage of OTs in rural and sub-urban areas, Dr Jeyaindran said the ministry was planning to increase the number at district hospitals and health clinics.

However, he acknowledged that the path to having more sub-specialist OTs will be gradual.

“We first need to have enough OTs. Then, we will only think of having them specialising in other areas,” he said.