Portugal has more than 15 thousand physiotherapists, but just over 1,500 work in the National Health Service. This disparity was highlighted by António Lopes, president of the Order of Physiotherapists, who warned about the consequences of this shortage in the public health system.
After hospital discharge, continuity of rehabilitation care may fail, representing a significant problem for patients. In the specific case of strokes, time is a critical factor that can directly influence the quality of patients' recovery.
António Lopes explained that the lack of physiotherapists in the NHS compromises adequate follow-up of patients who need continuous rehabilitation, especially those who have had strokes and need regular therapeutic interventions to recover functionalities.
