A THERAPY chief said allied health professionals need to ‘stand up and be counted’ after their roles were discussed at a major conference.
More than 70 allied health professionals (AHPs) from East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust met to discuss what the Francis Report, into failings at Stafford Hospital, means for their professions.
Occupational therapists, speech and language therapists, physiotherapists, radiographers, pharmacists, dietitians and podiatrists took part in the debate.
Although the professions were not mentioned specifically in the Francis Report, the event debated how they could work with nurses and doctors to promote a culture of openness in the NHS and look beyond their professions to ensure patients received safe, effective and personal care.
Tracey McGlone, clinical director of therapies, said: “We were overwhelmed by the interest and feedback at this conference. AHPs need to stand up, be counted and be proud about what they can offer in terms of patient care and experience.”
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