Empowering Rural Communities in India: Dr. Deoghare and Team’s Pro Bono Efforts Shine at APTA CSM 2024
By Dr. Harsha Deoghare
Western University of Health Sciences College of Health Sciences Associate Dean of Research Harsha Deoghare, PT, PhD, along with his esteemed team, unveiled a groundbreaking initiative aimed at empowering rural communities in India during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond. Presented at the American Physical Therapy Association Combined Sections Meeting (APTA CSM) 2024 in Boston, Mass., their abstract, titled “Empowering Rural Communities in India: Pro Bono Initiatives Addressing Health Disparities during COVID-19 and Beyond,” captivated attendees with its innovative approach to addressing health care inequalities.
The initiative, spearheaded by The International Society for Progression in Rehabilitation and Education (InSPIRE) Swades Inc., (Inspireswades.org) focused on bolstering health care accessibility, knowledge sharing, capacity building, and the provision of medical supplies in rural India. Dr. Deoghare and his team shed light on the dire challenges faced by India’s rural health care system, exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, including workforce shortages, poor infrastructure, and limited access to quality care.
In response to these challenges, InSPIRE Swades Inc. collaborated with U.S.-based organizations, including the American Physical Therapy Association and Sewa International, to launch a series of impactful initiatives. These initiatives encompassed the provision of essential medical supplies, such as oxygen, training for local health care workers, fundraising efforts, and health education campaigns.
One notable aspect of their endeavor was the utilization of telehealth to deliver remote rehabilitation services and support local physical therapists in providing effective care. This approach not only addressed immediate health care needs but also facilitated the long-term empowerment of the health care workforce and the promotion of overall wellness among the rural population.
Dr. Deoghare expressed gratitude towards APTA for the PACER Project, which provided free courses crucial for training clinicians in India amidst the pandemic. These courses played a vital role in enhancing practitioner proficiency, particularly in managing cardiovascular and pulmonary impairments associated with COVID-19.
The initiative underscored the importance of cross-border collaborations and knowledge sharing in mitigating health disparities, particularly in underserved rural areas. Dr. Deoghare’s team’s efforts exemplified the transformative impact that global health principles can have on improving health care access and delivery worldwide.
Their presentation at APTA CSM 2024 not only highlighted the significant contributions made by InSPIRE Swades Inc. but also served as a beacon of hope for marginalized communities facing health care challenges around the globe. Dr. Deoghare and his team’s dedication to creating a healthier and more just world resonated deeply with attendees, inspiring a renewed commitment to global health equity and social justice.
