Telehealth rehab, also known as remote physiotherapy or virtual physical therapy, is a service for patients who cannot get into the clinic to receive physical rehabilitation services. This service uses telecommunication technologies to deliver rehabilitation care remotely using real-time audio and video communication between clinicians and patients. It can also be used to send information and data, referred to as asynchronous or store-and-forward telehealth.
In general, telehealth is an alternative to in-person treatment sessions, though it can be combined with traditional treatments as well. For many patients, a combination of telehealth and in-person therapy provides the best results for their recovery. It’s a popular option in addiction recovery because it offers a convenient way to get help from an experienced therapist, without the added stress and costs of travel to a treatment facility.
With a simple Internet connection, patients can participate in a session with their therapists from the comfort of their home or office. It’s an ideal option for people who are immunocompromised, as traveling to a hospital or physician’s office could expose them to illnesses and viruses that are often found in medical settings. It’s also a great option for those with limited mobility who have difficulty traveling to appointments.
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been an increased demand for telehealth services. This is largely due to the ease and convenience of online treatment, which allows individuals with busy schedules to easily fit rehabilitation into their day-to-day lives. While some insurers and Medicare have been restrictive about paying for telerehabilitation services, it appears that they may be loosening their policies.
