COVID-19 Lessons From The Field: Toward A Pediatric Physical Therapy Telehealth Framework

Authors

  • Galia Daube Fishman Department of Physical Therapy, Movement & Rehabilitation Sciences, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA & University of Haifa, Mount Carmel, Haifa, Israel
  • Jeananne Elkins University of Haifa, Mount Carmel, Haifa, Israel

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5195/ijt.2022.6448

Keywords:

Early intervention, Pediatric physical therapy, Telehealth

Abstract

Introduction: Telehealth is an established health service delivery method, yet little is known regarding pediatric physical therapy telehealth. We aimed to evaluate users’ experiences and create a framework for effective delivery. Methods: A pediatric physical therapists’ telehealth user survey was conducted. Results: Seventy-three respondents varied in years of experience and caseload. Most found telehealth easy to learn and use, and they believed the treatment they delivered was useful. Three main themes for successful treatments emerged and were organized into a framework for effective delivery: (1) caregivers’ involvement; (2) therapist telehealth ‘toolbox’ (sub-divided into: treatment management tools, and therapist-caregivers’ collaboration tools); and (3) telehealth client (child) characteristics. Conclusion: This study suggests a new framework for effective pediatric physical therapy telehealth delivery to support best practice, for use by administrators and therapists and recommends directions for further research.

  

Author Biography

Jeananne Elkins, University of Haifa, Mount Carmel, Haifa, Israel

Dr. Elkins while serving as an Advanced Fellow in Geriatrics at the Birmingham/Atlanta VA Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Care Center was a part of CG ASSIST where via tele-implementation caregiving dryads and the home environment were assessed for safety in transfers. After equipment was placed Dr. Elkins provided training and follow up assessments via telehealth. Dr. Elkins is a health services researcher focusing on caregivers and evidenced based practice in physical therapy. She continues to have a strong interest in telehealth. 

References

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Published

2022-05-25

How to Cite

Daube Fishman, G., & Elkins, J. (2022). COVID-19 Lessons From The Field: Toward A Pediatric Physical Therapy Telehealth Framework . International Journal of Telerehabilitation, 14(1). https://doi.org/10.5195/ijt.2022.6448

Issue

Vol. 14 No. 1 (2022)

Section

Clinical Practice - COVID 19

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