The interview with Pavlina Filipi, the General Director of Darkov Spa and Brusno Spa, centered around contemporary rehabilitation practices, which emphasise the importance of procedural quality, a high number of professional healthcare staff, and the frequency and length of the treatments provided.
What does tradition mean for today’s patients?
Firstly, it is about security. The patient is assured they are entering a facility with a rich history and a strong professional background. While we respect our traditions, we are committed to continuous innovation, particularly through the use of our iodine brine.
What have you done well in the last ten years?
The launch of a children’s rehabilitation institute, the addition of advanced neurorehabilitation equipment, and the introduction of a new colonnade at the Karviná sanatorium are some of our recent advancements. Our philosophy has also changed – we now prioritise listening more to our patients.
What does the opening of the historic spa mean?
This summer, we will celebrate the reopening of the refurbished Old Spa, complete with a newly constructed colonnade and a fountain located in front of the Community House. The event will also feature a replica of the historic Darkov Doll statue, which was stolen in the past. This event will be a worthy culmination of my decade-long leadership at the spa.
Why is rehabilitation crucial?
It is not just an addition but the core of the treatment. It can be the deciding factor between getting back to work or remaining dependent on further rehabilitation. Our goal is to restore function and self-sufficiency.
Who comes to you most often?
Patients recovering from joint replacements, spinal or shoulder surgeries, neurological conditions, and younger individuals with back pain often come back to rebuild their strength and handle everyday activities. The ones who need our care most are those who would otherwise rely on assistance without it. Nowadays, we function more like a hospital than a traditional spa. You will experience the full spa atmosphere in a historic spa rather than in a rehabilitation facility.
And the children?
We are committed to providing excellent care for children, ensuring their rehabilitation is both fun and effective. Every child is paired with a therapist, and we collaborate closely with the parents. With the establishment of the Children’s Rehabilitation Institute, we realise the significant impact we have in helping children. This work not only fulfils me personally but also adds a great deal of joy and energy to the spa.
Why is the number of proposals for spa care declining?
Since spa towns and cities introduced overnight fees, there has been a noticeable drop in spa care proposals. It is unclear whether this decrease is due to changes in how proposals are issued or because of the fees, but about 20 % of proposals are absent from the market. Therefore, I want to remind you that the spa itself can now issue a proposal for spa care, which might simplify the process for patients.
What is the vision?
Our goal is to maintain high-quality rehabilitation and change the way spa care is planned to make the whole process easier and more efficient for patients. Additionally, we aim for the spa to expand its preventative programmes for employees, as maintaining good health is essential for handling later retirement.
“We wish for rehabilitation to be routinely included in how companies care for their employees.”
Thank you for the interview.
