The project aims to organize courses focused on updating the latest knowledge in evidence-based assessment and clinical practice within the field of Physiotherapy. Additionally, the project aims to facilitate exchange opportunities between Physiotherapists from two associations, to nurture future leaders in the Physiotherapy profession in Asia for both associations.
The majority of CDP programs at the time did not cater to the needs and standards of Physiotherapy. The CPE OPTIMAL project was officially launched by TPTA and VNPTA on October 1st, 2022. The project was funded by the Rotary International Global Grant for Vocational Team Training Project (GG2125902). Due to the challenging circumstances of the COVID-19 pandemic, the courses were initially conducted online. By January 2023, we had successfully organised the first in-person workshops in Hai Duong and Ho Chi Minh City. Additionally, we also arranged short-term training sessions in Taiwan for Physical Therapy educators and clinicians. The courses are developed with support from Taiwanese physiotherapy experts and translation assistance from VNPTA's international cooperation unit to increase access to Vietnamese. They cover a wide range of topics, including research, clinical practice in various settings, approaches to patient care, and support for both patients and their families.
In the first year, we conducted monthly online courses. In the second year, we shifted our focus to on-site workshops held in all three regions of Vietnam and training in Taiwan. The project organized 18 webinars with 707 educators, 938 clinicians, and 422 physiotherapy students from both public and private settings in Vietnam. Seven workshops took place in Hanoi, Hai Duong, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City, with the participation of nearly 125 VNPTA members working in various environments. Furthermore, two webinars were available for patients and their families: "Physical Therapy for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders" and "Physical Therapy in the School Setting." Four physical therapy educators from different universities attended a one-week Vietnam-Taiwan training program for educators in Taipei. Additionally, seven physiotherapists participated in the training course "Improving the Practice of Physical Therapy in Long-Term Health Care," held in Kaohsiung City, Taiwan.
This project represents a significant advancement in improving the knowledge and clinical skills of physiotherapists in Vietnam. It helps to affirm and recognize the position and role of physiotherapy in the treatment process for patients and in serving the community.
The design and implication of the project can be replicated in other countries to develop Continuing Professional Development in Physiotherapy.
Continuing Professional Development
Professional need
