Cezar STRUGARU, representative of the Suceava College of Physiotherapists, at FERM 2025: “Physiotherapy, a strategic necessity for public health”

REGIONAL ECONOMIC FORUM MOLDOVA 2025

19th Edition – Vatra Dornei, July 9–13, 2025

Thematic Panel:

Health and Medical Services in the Moldova Region

Speaker:

Cezar Strugaru – Physiotherapist, Suceava College of Physiotherapists

Topic of the speech:
“Physiotherapy as an Adjuvant Factor in Maintaining Patient Health”

Physiotherapist Cezar Strugaru, representative of the Suceava College of Physiotherapists, delivered at the Moldova Regional Economic Forum a vibrant and clear speech advocating for a real recognition of physiotherapy as a fundamental pillar in public health. Combining his experience in the healthcare system and education, Strugaru highlighted the discrepancies, needs, and opportunities of the profession he represents.

A Dual Perspective: Health and Education

“I think I am the luckiest person in this room,” said Cezar Strugaru at the beginning of his speech, explaining that he works both in the medical system and in education – as deputy director of an inclusive education school center in Gura Humorului.

However, his “luck” is challenged by statements and policies that ignore the reality on the ground. He bitterly recounted how, in an official context, a Minister of Education described schools for children with disabilities as “camps“.

“How should I feel? Am I really so ill-intentioned? We have all the conditions – both in education and at the physiotherapists’ college”

Situation of Physiotherapists in Suceava and Botoșani Counties: Only Half Active

According to the data presented, over 500 members are registered within the College of Physiotherapists in Suceava and Botoșani counties, but only half are active, holding valid practice licenses. The others either did not renew their documents or emigrated.

“We train people, but if we don’t offer them support and places to practice professionally, they leave”

Active physiotherapists work in hospitals, private offices, special education centers, DGASPC (General Directorate for Social Assistance and Child Protection), or as freelancers. However, real patient access to services is limited.

“Waiting lists, as my colleague from the hospital in Gura Humorului told me, stretch for weeks and months”

Supported by Eurostat data and clinical experience, Cezar Strugaru argued for a radical reconsideration of physiotherapy’s role.

“Physiotherapy is no longer a luxury or a secondary option. It is a strategic necessity in a society that is aging and where chronic diseases are on the rise”

He explained that physiotherapy has essential applications across multiple medical branches – from orthopedics, rheumatology, neurology, surgery, and oncology to geriatrics, pediatrics, cardiology, and sports medicine.

“We have colleagues who work even with the national football and rugby teams of Romania, and some are from our county”, he proudly pointed out.

Alarming Figures and the Impact of Physiotherapy on Social Costs

The presentation included striking statistics: between 15% and 26% of Romania’s population over 16 years old suffer from chronic conditions limiting daily activities. 11% have lower back pain, 6% cervical pain, and 2% suffer from congenital musculoskeletal or cardiovascular diseases. In 2024, according to CNAS data, over 2.3 million sick leave days were granted for such conditions.

“30% of sick leaves could be avoided or shortened if physiotherapists intervened earlier and more effectively”

Studies indicate a 26% reduction in the risk of rehospitalization for patients treated with physiotherapy during the acute phase of illness. This means not only reduced medical costs but also faster reintegration into work, education, and family life.

Systemic Problems and Professional Discrimination

Strugaru also exposed a sensitive issue within the professional system: inequity between specializations. There are three major categories in the field: kinetotherapy, physio-kinetotherapy, and balneophysio-kinetotherapy. Paradoxically, for certain hospital job openings, only some specializations are eligible.

“It is professional discrimination. We all have medical training and complementary competences. There is a need for harmonization between medical faculties and physical education faculties.”

Conclusion: An Investment in People and Community

Cezar Strugaru concluded his speech with an appeal for real recognition of physiotherapy as an integral part of the modern health system. He emphasized that physiotherapy is not just a medical intervention, but a profound investment in people’s lives – in their ability to live actively, remain independent, and contribute to the welfare of their communities.

“We have a noble profession: that of treating and caring for our fellow human beings”

Beyond numbers, legislation, or systemic shortcomings, he reminded that people should be at the center of all public policies. Physiotherapy is about restoring dignity, mobility, and hope – essential elements for a healthy and functional society. Prevention, he pointed out, must not be treated as an annex, but as a national priority that can reduce pressure on hospitals and improve quality of life.