KAMAL JUNDI AL-AAYEDI; Hussein Saraefi; Mortadha Altalkani; Ammar Al-azzawi
Volume 1, Issue 4 , December 2023
Abstract
Background and Purpose: Iraqi prosperity has not lasted for very long due to the several wars the country has suffered, as well as the ongoing, massive, and intentional destruction of infrastructure. Decades of sanctions and violence have drastically eroded the formerly proud and well-functioning health ...
Read More
Background and Purpose: Iraqi prosperity has not lasted for very long due to the several wars the country has suffered, as well as the ongoing, massive, and intentional destruction of infrastructure. Decades of sanctions and violence have drastically eroded the formerly proud and well-functioning health system. Physiotherapy may play a significant role in resolving these issues, given the ongoing population expansion andthe high rates of disease and disability. This study aimed to examine the present state of physiotherapy in Iraq and offer suggestions for furthering its growth and development. Method: This study employed a qualitative study design in the form of an online questionnaire (with the participation of 17 key informants among physiotherapists in Iraq). A framework of strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats was then used to categorize emergent themes and give a basis for a strategic direction for the profession. Results: Informants stated that professional motivation and an increase in colleges were strengths. Among the weaknesses were education, practice organization, societal awareness, and equipment limitations. The association and legal organization, continuous education, and multidisciplinary collaboration were opportunities that were explored. Intruders, quacks, and the continuation of the current situation were all threats that were handled. Conclusions: Our research indicates that the status of the physiotherapy profession in Iraq is not at the required level. Policymakers must work to enhance the profession's strengths and capitalize on opportunities for advancement while also working hard to decrease and eliminate weaknesses and threats.
