The STTEP: a Model for musculoskeletal health care in marginalized communities.
OBJECTIVE
This article introduces the STTEP (Sustainable Training, Treatment, Employment Program) Model. The Model has been in operation since 1995. It provides a useful conceptual framework for policy makers, practitioners, and educators. The Model evolved from work carried out by chiropractors, myotherapists, and related health workers in poor communities through the charitable organization Hands On Health Australia. The STTEP Model grew from a recognition that poor communities mostly rely on heavy, repetitive physical labor for work. For these communities, there is little opportunity to access suitable and affordable health care requiring them to frequently live with the pain and disability associated with highly prevalent musculoskeletal conditions in their communities. The STTEP Model includes myotherapy and musculoskeletal health promotion for uncomplicated musculoskeletal conditions.


CONCLUSIONS
The Model also supports training for community members and collaborates with community leaders to promote employment opportunities for graduates. The Model embraces an ethos of cultural sensitivity, corporate responsibility, and sustainability. Project Hope (Hands On Philippines Education), a program in the Philippines, is used to illustrate the Model in action.
Vindigni
Dein R
DR
Division of Chiropractic, RMIT University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia. dein@optusnet.com.au
Polus
Barbara I
BI
Edgecombe
Gay
G
Howard
Michael
M
van Rotterdam
Joan
J
Redpath
Felicity
F
Ellen
Elma
E
D001315:Australia; D003153:Community Health Services / Q000458:organization & administration*; D003695:Delivery of Health Care / Q000458:organization & administration*; D003906:Developing Countries; D004493:Education; D004651:Employment; D006293:Health Promotion; D006801:Humans; D009140:Musculoskeletal Diseases / Q000628:therapy*; D010679:Philippines; D005082:Physical Exertion; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities / Q000193:education; D026761:Physical Therapy Specialty / Q000193:education*; D011203:Poverty; D011204:Poverty Areas