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A Physical Therapist's Role in Clinical Video Telehealth
Yevgenia Jane Gitlin-Nitti1, Chirag D Shah1, Viktoria Kharlamb1
1is a physical therapist at the Miami VA Healthcare System Key West Outpatient Clinic in Florida. is a global scientific communications manager at Teva Pharmaceuticals in Frazer, Pennsylvania. is a senior pharmacy consultant at the VISN 3 Pharmacy Benefits Management Service in the Bronx, clinical assistant professor at the Long Island University Arnold & Marie Schwartz College of Pharmacy in Brooklyn, and an adjunct clinical assistant professor in the Department of Physical Therapy at New York University, all in New York.
Telehealth physical therapy sessions are now available for physical exams, diabetes management, and weight loss programs. This offers accessible healthcare solutions for various patient needs.
Area of Science:
- Healthcare technology
- Physical therapy
- Chronic disease management
Background:
- The integration of telehealth has expanded healthcare delivery models.
- Physical therapists play a crucial role in managing chronic conditions.
- Patient access to specialized care can be a significant barrier.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the implementation of telehealth services involving physical therapists.
- To outline the applications of these telehealth services in patient care.
- To assess the potential of telehealth in supporting physical examinations and chronic disease management programs.
Main Methods:
- Telehealth platforms were utilized to conduct remote physical examinations.
- Virtual consultations were established for shared diabetes appointments.
- Online sessions were developed for obesity and weight management classes.
- Physical therapist involvement was central to all telehealth interventions.
Main Results:
- Telehealth sessions facilitated remote physical examinations, improving accessibility.
- Shared diabetes appointments via telehealth demonstrated a novel approach to chronic care coordination.
- Obesity and weight management classes conducted through telehealth provided continuous support for participants.
- The implementation demonstrated the versatility of telehealth in physical therapy practice.
Conclusions:
- Telehealth services involving physical therapists are feasible and effective for diverse clinical applications.
- This model enhances patient access to physical therapy for examinations and chronic disease management.
- Further research should explore patient outcomes and cost-effectiveness of these telehealth interventions.