Vimal - Senior Physiotherapist
- Allied Health Professional (AHP)
- Name of service: Community Therapies
- Describe your role in three words: Empathetic, energising, adaptive
What does your day look like from sunrise to sunset?
My day at the intermediate care unit starts at 8:30 AM with an MDT meeting for handover and service planning. Before noon, I conduct face-to-face sessions, either patient assessments or follow-up therapy. Most days include group therapy sessions before lunch. After a 30-minute break, I handle documentation, such as patient records, referrals, and equipment provision. I typically end the day at 4:30pm with a follow-up visit or an assessment of a new admission.
How does your service support the residents of south east London?
We provide intermediate care primarily for residents of Lewisham and for those registered with a Lewisham GP. Our rehabilitation service lasts up to 4 weeks aiming to safely return a patient home after their admission to hospital, however, we sometimes get referrals from the community if a resident needs more care.
What’s the best way of explaining your role in the team?
I plan therapy interventions for patients admitted, working alongside other therapists, a geriatrician, the care team and social workers to deliver both 1:1 and group therapy sessions. I am responsible for the initial patient assessment and liaise with the team and patient’s family to manage expectations with compassion, and get support for the treatment plan.
Tell us about a time when you felt you made a difference to someone
I cared for a patient who had recently lost his independence following a hip surgery. Acknowledging the psychological impact of the situation, I focused on rebuilding his confidence, going the extra mile to motivate him and coordinate family support for his discharge. The patient regained his ability to walk independently and was thankful for my support.
What do you love about your role?
I really enjoy working in the community therapy team. Here we face challenges together, always putting our patients first. As a Physiotherapist I help patients from various backgrounds to achieve their individual goals with compassionate care. Helping patients and families and leaving an impactful footprint in their life makes this job the most rewarding role I have ever had and this motivates me to excel.
What advice would you give to someone starting in this role or keen to work in a similar service?
Working in a community therapy service is entirely different to other Physiotherapy roles. At community level you must work proactively to meet the various challenging demands of a patient. Having the will to constantly develop your skills is key to excelling in this role.