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Sustainable practices in hand therapy: a global...
Journal article

Sustainable practices in hand therapy: a global perspective

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.

Authors

Farzad M; Naqui Z; MacDermid J; Cuypers S

Journal

Journal of Hand Surgery (European Volume), Vol. 49, No. 8, pp. 1051–1056

Publisher

SAGE Publications

Publication Date

September 1, 2024

DOI

10.1177/17531934241246451

ISSN

1753-1934

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