Virtual Physical Therapy Practices in Canadian Exercise-Based Pulmonary Rehabilitation Programmes

Area of Science:

• Pulmonary Rehabilitation
• Physical Therapy
• Virtual Care

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of virtual care models in healthcare.
• Pulmonary rehabilitation programs are adapting to incorporate digital health solutions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate current virtual care practices in Canadian pulmonary rehabilitation programs.
• To understand the implementation and enablers of telehealth in respiratory physical therapy.

Main Methods:

• A web-based survey was distributed to physiotherapists in Canadian pulmonary rehabilitation programs (March-June 2023).
• Data were collected from 31 respondents representing 56 programs, yielding a 51% response rate.

Main Results:

• A majority (65%) of programs utilized a hybrid model combining virtual and in-person care.
• In-person assessments were common for exercise capacity and physical function.
• Virtual delivery was frequently used for exercise prescription, education, and psychosocial support.

Conclusions:

• Physiotherapists are increasingly adopting hybrid models for pulmonary rehabilitation post-pandemic.
• Further research into the clinical utility of virtual assessments is needed.
• Enhanced clinical guidelines and training are crucial for optimizing virtual and hybrid rehabilitation delivery.