Physical Therapy Care for Delayed Motor Development Children to Improved Quality of Life within the context of community hospitals in the three southern border provinces

Abstract

Background : Currently, many children have delayed motor development, especially in Yala Province, where the rate of delay is higher than the national average. There is also a lack of physical rehabilitation centers, which makes it difficult for children to access these services. Furthermore, parents lack the knowledge and understanding of caring for their children. Therefore, the physical therapy department at Raman Hospital has established a child motor development clinic to make it easier for children to access rehabilitation services and to improve their long-term quality of life.

Objective : This study aimed to include 1. Increased access to physical therapy services for children with delayed motor development. 2. To educate parents about how to care for children with developmental delays; and 3. To improve the skills of children with delayed motor development on at least one level.

Method : Phase 1: Setting up a child motor development clinic run by a physical therapist. However, the number of children visiting clinics remains low. Therefore, Phase 2 focused on providing education and information to parents and promoting the clinic. This led to an increase in children's access to services. As a result, it became necessary to expand the service hours to meet demand. Standardized treatment guidelines have been established for pediatric motor development clinics. Satisfaction surveys were conducted to improve the service model. A multidisciplinary team was coordinated to care for and progress to phase 5, which involved proactive home visits in the community.

Result : The target rate of access to physical therapy services for children with delayed motor development has increased to 68%. The parents’ knowledge and understanding about caring for children with delayed motor development increased by 93 %, and the children showed an 84% one-level improvement in their development.

Conclusion : Delayed motor development in preschool children in Yala Province requires urgent attention. Collaboration from all sectors involving the government, private sector, and community is key to helping children fully develop their potential and improve their quality of life.