Smriti Shrestha

member

As a second-year Fellow in PM&R at the Patan Academy of Health Sciences, Dr. Shrestha is developing a clinical foundation across a wide range of rehabilitation conditions. Her long-term objective is to address the gap between the high demand for rehabilitation and the lack of trained providers by improving national access to comprehensive care.

smritishrestha@pahs.edu.np

Visionary Goals

Clinical Journeys and Aspirations

Our specialists discuss what motivates them to serve individuals with disabilities and their aspirations for expanding care nationwide.

Can you share with us where you are currently in your professional journey?

I am currently a second-year Fellow in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PM&R) at Patan Academy of Health Sciences. I am building a strong foundation in rehabilitation medicine while gaining clinical experience across a wide range of rehabilitation conditions.

What first drew you to PM&R, and what continues to motivate you in this field?

I first learned about PM&R when I came across the fellowship program notice, and the broad scope of the specialty immediately captured my interest. My enthusiasm for the field deepened after my first visit to the Spinal Injury Rehabilitation Centre (SIRC), where interacting with patients with spinal cord injuries was truly inspiring. Seeing the impact that rehabilitation can have on patients’ lives motivated me to pursue this specialty.

In your view, how will PM&R shape the future of rehabilitation and disability care in Nepal?

As I have gained a basic understanding of rehabilitation medicine, I have come to recognize the immense need for PM&R services in Nepal. There is a significant gap between the demand for rehabilitation care and the availability of trained providers. PM&R will play a crucial role in addressing this gap by expanding services, strengthening training programs, and improving access to quality rehabilitation care.

What are your personal and professional aspirations within the field of PM&R?

I hope to continue developing my clinical skills and knowledge in rehabilitation medicine and contribute to strengthening PM&R services in Nepal. My long-term goal is to be part of efforts that improve access to comprehensive rehabilitation care and help advance the specialty nationally.