Speech therapists Ms Tran Thi Anh Thu and Mr Nguyen Quang Binh continue to carry on with the successful implementation of the stroke rehabilitation group at An Binh Hospital in District 5, Ho Chi Minh City. The speech therapists met with Sarah Day (Australian Volunteer for International Development) recently to discuss their professional development and workplace practice goals for the future.

With Mr Le Khan Dien, head of the speech therapy department at An Binh Hospital, away in Australia completing his Master’s at Newcastle University, Ms Thu is working hard with her newly graduated colleague Mr Binh to design and implement evidence-based service models of care in both adult and paediatric service areas. Within their 1400-bed hospital.

But An Binh Hospital Rehabilitation Department offer therapeutic services with a difference! Twice per week they support a post-stroke rehabilitation art class with support from volunteer traditional Vietnamese artist Ms Kim, and art students from the local university. Patients love to join in the written word and scene-painting classes with other patients who they now call their friends. Patients wives also attend, but often wait outside, socially chatting amongst themselves.

Ms Thu and Mr Binh are proud of the outcomes patients are achieving, not only with their communication rehabilitation but also with general wellbeing outcomes. Patients comment these groups are often the highlight of their week. Congratulations An Binh Hospital speech therapists for the positive impact you are making on the lives of those living in your community with complex communication needs!