The 15th edition of the ‘Scientifica’ National Physiotherapy Conference, held on November 16th and 17th, 2024, at Goa Medical College, Bambolim, Goa, marked a significant milestone in the field of physiotherapy and rehabilitation. The conference was organized by the Physiotherapy Course, Allied Health Science Courses, and the Department of Orthopedics at Goa Medical College, in collaboration with Sancheti Institute of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation College of Physiotherapy, Pune.
With over 600 delegates attending, the conference highlighted the theme “Embracing AI Technology: Transforming the Future of Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation,” exploring the profound impact of artificial intelligence in enhancing physiotherapy practices and rehabilitation outcomes. The Chief Patrons for the conference were Dr. Vishwajit Rane, Minister for Health, TCP, Forest, Urban Development, Women & Child Development, Government of Goa, and Dr. K.H. Sancheti, Chairman & Founder of Sancheti Hospital. Patrons were Prof. Dr. S.M. Bandekar, Dean of Goa Medical College, Dr. Parag Sancheti, Chairman of Sancheti Hospital, Pune, and Mrs. Manisha Sanghvi, Chairperson of Sancheti Healthcare Academy, Pune.
The inaugural session was graced by Shripad Y. Naik, Union Minister of State for Power and New & Renewable Energy, Government of India, who was the Chief Guest. In his address, Naik emphasized the vital role of physiotherapy in improving public health and shared his personal experiences with physiotherapy, underscoring its significance in recovery and rehabilitation.
Also present at the event were Prof. Dr. S.M. Bandekar, Dean of Goa Medical College, and Mrs. Manisha Sanghvi, Chairperson of Sancheti Healthcare Academy, Pune. Both expressed their support for the conference’s theme and acknowledged the growing integration of AI technology in the healthcare sector, especially in physiotherapy.
During the conference, a special felicitation ceremony was held to honor Prof. Dr. S.M. Bandekar for his pioneering contributions to the field of physiotherapy over the past decade. As the Dean of Goa Medical College, Dr. Bandekar has played a pivotal role in shaping the physiotherapy department and advancing education and research in the field. His dedication to promoting physiotherapy in Goa was recognized and celebrated by the conference organizers, faculty, and delegates.
At the valedictory function, Prof. Dr. S.M. Bandekar, Dean of Goa Medical College, and Dr. Sandip Sardessai, Director of Academics and Head of the Department of Physiology at Goa Medical College, were also present. They congratulated the organizing team and delegates for their successful participation in the conference and emphasized the importance of such events in furthering the knowledge and development of the physiotherapy community.
The organizing team for the conference was led by the Organizing Chairpersons, Dr. Jorida Fernandes, Associate Professor, Physiotherapy Course, AHSC, Goa Medical College, and Dr. Apurv Shimpi from Sancheti Institute of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation College of Physiotherapy, Pune. The Organizing Secretaries were Dr. Sachin Gawande, Assistant Professor, Physiotherapy Course, AHSC, Goa Medical College, and Dr. Raddha Batted from Sancheti Institute of Orthopedics and Rehabilitation, Pune.
The success of the event was made possible by the dedicated involvement of undergraduates, interns, and postgraduate students (Dr. Shreya Dhargalkar, Dr. Monika Gawas, Dr. Laxmi Kamat, Dr. Ashlesha Phadte, Dr. Sejal Vaigankar, Dr. Shannon Fernandes), clinical therapists (Dr. Mithsu D’Souza, Dr. Reena Fernandes, Dr. Rujuta Garge, Dr. Saylee Shirodkar, Dr. Adishree Kenkre, Dr. Shweta Mulgaonkar, Dr. Trupti Arondekar, Dr. Rutuja Sawant), and faculty members (Dr. Alisha Gracias, Dr. Swati Cormoli, Dr. Pamela D’Silva) of the Physiotherapy Department at Goa Medical College. Dr. Amey Kamat, faculty from the Department of Pharmacology, was also instrumental in the success of the event.
A highlight of the conference was the oration by Dr. Michael Row, Associate Professor from the University of Lincoln, United Kingdom, who shared invaluable insights into advanced physiotherapy techniques and the role of AI in rehabilitation and research. The Keynote Speaker was Dr. Rohini Ganjoo, Faculty at George Washington University, USA, who spoke on “AI Ethics in Health Professions: Navigating the Grey Areas.” Renowned physiotherapy experts from both India and overseas also graced the conference, delivering impactful talks and engaging with delegates. Panel discussions were also conducted.
The conference featured over 100 scientific paper presentations across various categories, including professional, postgraduate, undergraduate, and innovative practices in AI-driven physiotherapy. These presentations showcased cutting-edge research and practical applications that are shaping the future of physiotherapy and rehabilitation.
In addition to the scientific sessions, the conference also hosted several competitions, including reel-making, debate, and quiz contests. These activities not only provided a platform for creative expression but also encouraged healthy competition and engagement among participants. Prizes were awarded to the winners in each category, celebrating the innovation and talent within the physiotherapy community.
The conference also featured a series of hands-on workshops, providing attendees with practical experience in utilizing cutting-edge AI technologies in physiotherapy practices. These workshops were designed to equip participants with the skills necessary to integrate these technologies into their daily practice, furthering the goals of innovation and excellence in patient care.
The success of the 15th ‘Scientifica’ National Physiotherapy Conference reflects the growing importance of AI in the field and the need for continuous education and collaboration among physiotherapists and healthcare professionals to transform rehabilitation practices.
