Is Telerehab Right For You?
Physiotherapy is an essential part of our lives.
We’re doing everything in our power to ensure that you safely get the
quality care you need, when you need it.
In addition to in-person care, the availability of virtual care, also called
telerehab, gives us more options to get you the care you need.
EFFECTIVE SAFE CARE THAT WORKS
Your physiotherapist is required to ensure the privacy and security of your personal information at all times and this extends to virtual care.
Your physiotherapist must also confirm that the location you choose to receive care is safe (e.g. no tripping risks) and that procedures are in place for you to receive help in the event of an emergency.
Your physiotherapist may recommend that you have another person (e.g. family member) with you during your treatment session to enhance the safety and value of the visit.
COVERED BY EXTENDED HEALTH INSURERS AND OTHER PROGRAMS
Telerehab services are being covered by a number of insurance benefit plans.
If you are not sure if your insurance provider will cover virtual care then you should contact them in advance of booking an appointment.
If you’re injured at work WSIB covers virtual visits.
If you’re injured in a car accident most auto insurance plans cover virtual visits.
EASY FLEXIBLE ACCESS
Telerehab can be easier for you to schedule because there’s no time spent in travel.
You don’t need to wear any protective equipment, like masks.
You can practice your exercises in your own home environment which will make it easier for you to incorporate your exercises into your home life.
Telerehab might be a good fit for you.
THOSE REQUIRING HANDS-ON TREATMENT
Some hands-on assessment or treatment techniques simply cannot be provided in a virtual setting.
However, even though some sessions may require in-person care, you and your physiotherapist can work together to either modify your treatment based on what you have at home and the supports you have available, or provide a combined approach that may include both in-person and virtual care.
THOSE WITH LIMITED ACCESS TO TECHNOLOGY
Many people can access care virtually but it might not work for everyone depending on their condition and other things like access to technology or comfort in taking instructions by phone or online.
It is up to you and your physiotherapist to decide if virtual care works for you and your condition.
THOSE WHO ARE UNABLE TO ACCESS PRIVATE OR SAFE ENVIRONMENTS
Physiotherapists and physiotherapist assistants are required to ensure the privacy and security of your personal information at all times. This extends to the technology they use as well as the appropriateness of the setting in which you receive your care.
The physiotherapist must also check that the location you pick to receive care is safe (e.g. no tripping risks) and that procedures are in place for you to receive help in the event of an emergency.
At all times physiotherapists and physiotherapist assistants are guided by what is best for you, your preferences and the need to minimize the risk of infection.
That is why more and more physiotherapists have added virtual care options for you to access.
Our work makes a difference.
And while the way we deliver services may look different than it did in the past, what hasn’t changed is our commitment to your care, safety and recovery.
© All Rights Reserved 2020
Why telerehab may be the effective and safe treatment you’ve been looking for.
As physiotherapists, we’re trained to assess, diagnose, treat and deliver services in-person and virtually.
IN-PERSON CARE
TELEREHAB
What’s the difference between
in-person care and telerehab?
High quality of care including rehabilitation, health promotion and injury prevention.
Conducting a comprehensive assessment and providing a diagnosis.
*Whether care is provided virtually or in a clinic, physiotherapists must comply with all the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario standards of practice.
Designing a treatment plan that may include an individualized exercise program that is taught to you to ensure you are doing all the movements correctly.
Hands-on treatment techniques that cannot be self-administered or done by a caregiver.
*Some hands-on treatment techniques cannot be provided in a virtual setting but there are many things that a physiotherapist can do to help you. These include teaching you techniques you can do, or your helper can do with you, and specific exercises individualized for your needs.
You can expect to receive safe, effective, customized and evidence-based care as you would with an in-clinic visit.
Progressing your exercise program so you continue to imrove.
Use of modalities like electrical stimulation and heat/cold applications.
*As long as you and your physiotherapist have determined the appropriate equipment that is available at your home.
Guiding you to perform techniques on yourself including how to do the technique and at what intensity
Self-management, education, coaching and reassurance so that you understand your condition and your treatment plan.
Assessing how you are doing your daily activities and helping with recommendations on any needed adaptations.
Telerehab isn’t for everyone.
Telerehab isn’t for everyone.
Telerehab might be a good fit for you.
