Telehealth in the Digital Era: The New Way to Access Physiotherapy and Rehab
The landscape of healthcare has undergone a transformative shift in recent years, with technology playing a pivotal role in reshaping traditional practices. One area that has seen remarkable progress in this technological world is physiotherapy and rehabilitation, thanks to the advent of telehealth. This innovative approach to healthcare delivery is revolutionising the way individuals access physiotherapy services, breaking down geographical barriers and providing a new level of convenience, whilst being able to treat appropriate conditions as effectively as face-to-face physiotherapy (as shown in this research article by Lee et al (2018)).
In this blog post, we will explore the reasons why telehealth is emerging as the new way to access physiotherapy and rehabilitation.
Defining Telehealth Physiotherapy 👨💻
Telehealth Physiotherapy, often referred to as virtual or remote physiotherapy, involves the use of digital communication tools and technology to provide physiotherapy services to individuals at a distance. Instead of traditional face-to-face appointments, patients and physiotherapists connect through video conferencing, online platforms, or other virtual means. Here at NEOstream, we use the words telehealth and online appointment interchangeably. This service is normally delivered through computers/laptops - though patients have a choice of using computers, laptops, tablets, or smartphones, and if needed non-video-based appointments can be organised with a non-smartphone or for those with visual impairments.
Accessibility and Convenience
One of the primary advantages of telehealth in physiotherapy is the enhanced accessibility it offers to patients. Traditional in-person sessions often require individuals to travel long distances, which can be a significant barrier, especially for those living in remote areas or with mobility challenges. Telehealth eliminates this obstacle by enabling patients to connect with their physiotherapists from the comfort of their homes. This increased accessibility not only saves time and money but also ensures that individuals can receive timely care without unnecessary delays. I have observed the need for this improvement in various settings, working in San Remigio, Philippines and travelling in developing countries around the world. People living in rural and remote areas have poor access to health care professionals, with the health care professionals available being spread thin across wide communities. Whereas, working in London, due to the high population - although there are health care services available, it can take people weeks and months before seeing a physiotherapist. By this time, easily managed conditions can become chronic.
Telehealth provides unparalleled convenience. Patients no longer need to schedule their lives around appointments or face long waiting times in crowded clinics. With online physiotherapy sessions, individuals can seamlessly integrate their rehabilitation into their daily routines, fostering greater adherence to treatment plans and, ultimately, better outcomes.
Viability
A concern of many is that telehealth physiotherapy cannot take the place or is not as effective as seeing a physiotherapist in person. At NEOstream we aim not to replace but to support and work alongside other physiotherapists working across the world. Yes, there are some conditions/injuries that may be more appropriate to see someone in person - for example: hand/wrist injuries that may require casting or splinting. If you have seen a physiotherapist before and know and love hands-on treatment like massage, dry needling etc. go for it! These treatments are generally referred to as adjunctive therapies - meaning they are used in addition to education and exercise for some short-term pain management. Think about having dessert after dinner, it won’t provide much nutritional value, but tastes good and can be beneficial in small amounts in certain instances.
Thankfully, telehealth is not brand new, and there have been countless online physiotherapy consultations across the world and many scientific studies that have shown online physiotherapy does work! For example, van Egmond, M.A et al. (2018) researched the feasibility of telehealth for surgical patients, Huijgen et al. (2008) demonstrated a form of telehealth was as effective as usual care for arm/hand function in patients with stroke, traumatic brain injury and multiple sclerosis. Linked above is a study by Lee et al. supporting telehealth for most muscle/joint injuries, though keep an eye out for future blog posts that will contain more evidence supporting telehealth physiotherapy as a viable option to manage your health condition.
Continuity of Care
Telehealth plays a crucial role in maintaining continuity of care, especially in situations where in-person visits may be challenging or impossible. Whether due to a global pandemic, weather issues, or personal circumstances, telehealth ensures that physiotherapy and rehabilitation services remain uninterrupted. Patients can stay on track with their treatment plans, receive ongoing support, and address any concerns they may have, all without the need for physical presence.
This continuity is particularly beneficial for individuals with chronic conditions or those requiring long-term rehabilitation. At NEOstream we recommend regular online check-ins so that physiotherapists can monitor progress, adjust treatment plans as needed, and provide the necessary guidance to promote optimal recovery. For small questions, email correspondence can be used to help address anything that may be preventing you from staying on track with your treatment plan.
Unfortunately, technology does have its downside. Although telehealth has this crucial role in maintaining continuity of care as mentioned above, this can be limited if there are internet or technological malfunctions during a consultation. Thankfully, if you have a good internet provider, this should not be an issue, and this will continue to improve as technology improves.
Personalised and Adaptable Treatment Plans
Telehealth in physiotherapy opens up new possibilities for personalised and adaptable treatment plans. Advanced technology allows for the remote assessment of movement, joint function, and other relevant metrics. Physiotherapists can utilise video consultations to observe patients perform exercises in real time, providing valuable insights into their progress and identifying areas that require further attention. Even with the basic technology, physiotherapists and patients can take pictures and videos with their phones/computers/tablets - which can be analysed both during and following an appointment.
The integration of wearable devices and sensors enhances the remote monitoring capabilities of telehealth. Patients can use these devices to track their movements and vital signs, allowing physiotherapists to make data-driven decisions and tailor treatment plans to individual needs. This level of personalisation ensures that each patient receives a targeted and effective rehabilitation program, optimising the chances of a successful recovery. If you use a wearable device like a smartwatch, please let your physiotherapist know as this can be helpful in your treatment plan!
Patient Empowerment and Engagement 🤝
Telehealth empowers patients to take an active role in their rehabilitation journey. Online physiotherapy sessions encourage individuals to participate more actively in their care by providing them with the tools and knowledge to manage their conditions independently. Physiotherapists can demonstrate exercises, educate patients about their conditions, and offer guidance on self-management strategies, fostering a sense of empowerment.
Moreover, the flexibility of telehealth allows patients to choose when and where they engage in their rehabilitation exercises. This autonomy can increase motivation and engagement, leading to better compliance with treatment plans and improved overall outcomes. As patients become more involved in their recovery, they are more likely to adopt healthy habits and practices that contribute to long-term well-being.
Cost-effectiveness and Resource Optimisation
Telehealth has the potential to contribute significantly to cost-effectiveness and resource optimisation in the healthcare system. Rather than seeing your GP or going to a hospital, many conditions can be managed through an online physiotherapy consultation. This reduces the strain on the healthcare system. If you do require further medical management, your physiotherapist will have the tools/skills to identify this and refer you across. Patients also save money on travel expenses, child care and potential time off work, making rehabilitation more economically viable.
Furthermore, telehealth enables physiotherapists to serve a broader patient population without geographical constraints. This allows healthcare providers to reach individuals in underserved areas and address the growing demand for physiotherapy services more efficiently. The efficient use of resources benefits both patients and healthcare systems, ensuring that quality rehabilitation services are accessible to a larger segment of the population.
So What’s Next for Telehealth? 💡
As technology continues to advance, telehealth is poised to become the new standard in accessing physiotherapy and rehabilitation services. The benefits of enhanced accessibility, continuity of care, personalised treatment plans, patient empowerment, and cost-effectiveness position telehealth as a transformative force in the healthcare landscape. While traditional in-person sessions will always have their place, the integration of telehealth in physiotherapy heralds a new era of patient-centric care, breaking down barriers and providing innovative solutions to the evolving needs of individuals seeking rehabilitation.
Here at NEOstream, we are looking at how to further improve this service, both for us as clinicians and for the people we treat and see every day. Our goal is that in 10 years, people stop questioning if they have to go into a clinic to see a physiotherapist, but understand they do have other options and share that. Your grandmother who is immunocompromised, a friend or relative overseas who has to travel hours to see a physiotherapist or even yourself wanting to keep up your rehab whilst on holiday! Telehealth is perfect for people like this, and countless more.
NEOstream brings the buzz of telehealth to your fingertips 👨💻. Ready to redefine your physiotherapy experience? Here’s your chance – book your initial appointment and feel the NEOstream difference firsthand! 🙌
