Article

The Field of Competence (FOC) of specialists in Physical and Rehabilitation
Medicine (PRM) in Europe follows uniform basic principles described in the White
Book of PRM in Europe. An agreed basis of the field of competence is the European
Board curriculum for the PRM-specialist certification. However, due to national
traditions, different health systems and other factors, PRM practice varies
between regions and countries in Europe. Even within a country the professional
practice of the individual doctor may vary because of the specific setting he or
she is working in. For that reason this paper aims at a comprehensive description
of the FOC in PRM. PRM specialists deal with/intervene in a wide range of
diseases and functional deficits. Their interventions include, prevention of
diseases and their complications, diagnosis of diseases, functional assessment,
information and education of patients, families and professionals, treatments
(physical modalities, drugs and other interventions). PRM interventions are often
organized within PRM programmes of care. PRM interventions benefit from the
involvement of PRM specialists in research. PRM specialists have knowledge of the
rehabilitation process, team working, medical and physical treatments,
rehabilitation technology, prevention and management of complications and
methodology of research in the field. PRM specialists are involved in reducing
functional consequences of many health conditions and manage functioning and
disability in the respective patients. Diagnostic skills include all dimensions
of body functions and structures, activities and participation issues relevant
for the rehabilitation process. Additionally relevant contextual factors are
assessed. PRM interventions range from medication, physical treatments,
psychosocial interventions and rehabilitation technology. As PRM is based on the
principles of evidence-based medicine PRM specialist are involved in research
too. Quality management programs for PRM interventions are established at
national and European levels. PRM specialists are practising in various settings
along a continuum of care, including acute settings, post acute and long term
rehabilitation programs.
The latter include community based activities and
intermittent in- or out-patient programs. Within all PRM practice, Continuous
Medical Education (CME) and Continuous Professional Development (CPD) are part of
the comprehensive educational system.
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Langue : ANGLAIS ; FRANCAIS