Robot helps bring physiotherapy and rehabilitation services to rural First Nations

Rehabilitation and physiotherapy services are essential for maintaining quality of life, especially as individuals age. However, many people living in rural Manitoba have limited to no access to these vital services. In response to this issue, regular and essential physio and rehab services are now being offered to residents of Pinaymootang First Nation and Lake Manitoba First Nation through the innovative use of a videoconferencing robot. This allows the physiotherapist to provide care remotely while remaining in another city.

One individual who has experienced the benefits of this service is Clinton Anderson from Pinaymootang First Nation. Nearly two years ago, Anderson was involved in a workplace crash that left him with multiple lacerations, broken bones, and a concussion. His recovery was further complicated by the lack of available physiotherapy and rehabilitation services near his community. Anderson had to travel to different communities, such as Winnipeg, over 200 km away, to see various physiotherapists, which made his recovery process challenging and disjointed.

Thanks to tele-rehabilitation services introduced in Pinaymootang and Lake Manitoba First Nation, Anderson and other residents now have access to more regular appointments for rehab and physio. This initiative is a collaboration between Interlake-Eastern Regional Health Authority, Riverview Health Centre, and the University of Manitoba. Physiotherapist Tim Romanec can remotely control a robot named Wall-E, equipped with cameras and sensors, to interact with clients and oversee their therapy sessions. This hands-on approach ensures that clients receive proper guidance and assistance during their rehabilitation exercises.

The use of remote physiotherapy services not only benefits individuals like Anderson but also helps bridge the gap in healthcare services in rural areas. By offering these services locally, residents can maintain their quality of life, mobility, and independence as they age. This approach is crucial in addressing vacancies and retention issues in the healthcare sector in Manitoba, ensuring that individuals in remote communities receive the care they need to stay healthy and active.

Moving forward, the goal is to expand the services to include access to occupational therapy and speech therapy. This holistic approach to healthcare is vital for individuals like Dwayne Moar, who has longstanding injuries that require ongoing care and support. With the hybrid-service model, individuals like Moar can receive the necessary care in their home community, eliminating the need for costly and time-consuming trips to larger urban centers.

Ultimately, the implementation of remote physiotherapy services is not only about providing medical care but also about preserving Indigenous cultural values and community strength. By ensuring that elders and community members have access to quality healthcare, Indigenous communities can thrive and continue their tradition of caring for one another across generations. It is essential to prioritize the health and well-being of all individuals, regardless of their geographic location, to create a more inclusive and supportive healthcare system for everyone.