Temporary changes to Hauora Tairāwhiti Physiotherapy Services have had to be made after the resignation of two physiotherapists in the last three months, on top of other vacancies. The service which provides physiotherapy to people in hospital, in the community and people referred from their GP is down to 50 percent of the staff required.
Nationally physiotherapists are in short supply says Shared Services Manager Kate Mather. “We are actively recruiting to fill five positions but this takes time. In the meantime we need to reduce some services so that those with the highest need continue to get treated. This is a temporary situation. We are advertising nationally and internationally. There are already two physiotherapists that we are working through the recruitment process with.”
“We will continue to treat people in hospital, people referred by a specialist doctor (like an orthopaedic surgeon for example) for outpatient physiotherapy and services for people needing treatment in their home. “
“Usually we also treat people who have been referred to our service by their GP. We have written to ask GPs not to send referrals through except for those they consider priority one (needing immediate treatment). “
“We encourage anyone who has an injury that will be covered by ACC to see a private physiotherapist in the community. For anyone with minor mobility issues that would benefit from physiotherapy there is the option to see a private physiotherapist - there will be a charge for this.”
If your GP considers you need immediate treatment, they will contact the Physiotherapy Clinical Leader to discuss treatment options. A solution will be found for you so that you receive the treatment you need without delay.