Rehabilitation services for disabled discussed

MUSCAT, Oct 3

The Second Forum for Private Rehabilitation Centres in Oman aims to strengthen cooperation between the Ministry of Social Development and private rehabilitation centers, focusing on exchanging expertise and best practices in rehabilitating persons with disabilities. This initiative reflects the Ministry's ongoing efforts to elevate service quality and efficiency, ensuring these centers meet the aspirations of individuals with disabilities and their families.

Private rehabilitation centers across Oman have made significant progress in recent years. However, the Ministry is committed to further improving services and addressing the challenges these centers face.

Hamoud al Amri, Assistant Director of the Rehabilitation and Quality Programs Department, highlighted the forum's role as a platform for sharing ideas to enhance the level of rehabilitation services. Building on the success of the first forum, this year's event aims to take the development of rehabilitation services to new heights.

Statistics from the Ministry of Social Development reveal that as of this year, 62,022 persons with disabilities are registered in Oman, with 8,429 parking permits issued and 16,506 prosthetic and assistive devices provided.

The disability rate has increased by 13.5 per cent over the past two years, accounting for 1.7 per cent of the Omani population. The forum addressed the need for continuous improvements in the quality of services provided to this community, discussing policies, licensing procedures, and financial aspects to ensure efficient and effective care. Currently, 39,828 individuals benefit from disability support, with 4,920 registered for benefits, representing approximately 85 per cent of those eligible.

The forum underscored the crucial role of private rehabilitation centres in achieving sustainable development for persons with disabilities. Mohammed al Tamimi, from the Five Senses Center in Salalah, emphasised the responsibility of Omani society, institutions, and individuals in partnering with these centres to contribute to the rehabilitation process.