Maryam Farzad, Zaf Naqui, Joy MacDermid, Steven Cuypers
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Given its significant environmental footprint, healthcare sustainability is paramount. This study delves into the contributory role of hand therapy, assessing hand therapists’ comprehension, implementation and barriers to sustainable practices, focusing on orthotic fabrication. A global survey distributed via social media and professional networks collected data on sustainability awareness, practices and educational needs from 113 respondents, primarily from North America (34%) and Europe (32%). Although 91% recognized climate change, only 34% practised sustainability. Despite 57% attempting eco-friendly actions in orthotic fabrication, such as reusing components (65%), knowledge of reusable materials was low (17%) and recycling thermoplastics was inadequate (74.3%). The main barriers were lack of awareness (59%), material scarcity (56.6%) and time constraints (54%). The findings underscore the urgent need for enhanced education, better resource availability and policy reforms to close the gap between awareness and action, promoting sustainability in hand therapy.
期刊介绍:
The Journal of Hand Surgery (European Volume) is essential reading for everyone involved in restoring the function to the hand and upper limb. Dedicated to the needs of hand, plastic, reconstructive and orthopaedic surgeons, it publishes the best selection of current papers on hand surgery.
The journal regularly highlights key developments in a range of original, authoritative and highly informative articles written by distinguished experts from around the world. Rapid coverage of the latest research, techniques, trends and ideas to make sure you stay up-to-date.
Subjects covered include:
joint replacement
fracture and joint injuries
microvascular surgery
congenital hand problems
You will also find editorials, book reviews, conference dates, case studies, detailed coverage of new techniques and full-length reviews articles.