A specialist in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation known as Physiatrist treats patients with physical and/or cognitive impairments and disabilities that result from musculoskeletal, neurological or other medical conditions. Physiatrists have expertise in medications, therapeutic exercise and interventions for management of pain and spasticity, electro diagnosis, prostheses, orthoses and other equipment to assist daily activities and coordinate treatment to help patients improve their physical, psychological, social and vocational function.
Development of science and technology throughout the world has improved overall quality of life. The specialty of PMR has been emerging as an essential branch of medical science in different parts of the world. Technological advancement through research and innovation has revolutionized this subject. As 10% of world population is suffering from different kinds of disability these people needs the consultation and support of Physiatrists as much as other specialists.
In Bangladesh, people are getting the service of PMR from 1967 when the department was first established in Dhaka Medical College Hospital. Although the number of Physiatrists is very few in terms of patients needing consultation in this country, the Physiatrists are working really hard to overcome the situation.
As the president of the society I am highly privileged to be a part of BAPMR since its inception in 1995. I remain especially energized about the progress of our Association and the accomplishments of its many dedicated members. BAPMR is dedicated in improving membership benefits and engaging more members as active participants in the Association.
It was so exciting to see the Physiatrists and other physicians relating rehabilitation attending the recently concluded BAPMRCON-2014. The conference was a great success by all accounts. Thanks to all the participants for taking the pain of coming to the conference in spite of their busy schedule and thereby making the conference a successful one. The attendance exceeded expectations, the scientific sessions were highly praised and the conference atmosphere promoted a better platform for the trainees, residents, fellows and medical students to contribute in the field of Physical medicine and rehabilitation.
BSPMR is working relentlessly to create awareness, orient physicians and concerned persons, organizing seminars, symposium, and workshops to enrich the knowledge of the Physiatrists. I hope in near future PMR will appear as a major specialty with fully equipped support and service in all corners of Bangladesh and then my dream may come true.