Medical Xpress August 18, 2021
As a pediatric physical therapist in Clinton, Missouri, Jessica Luechtefeld was used to a hands-on coaching approach whenever meeting with her patients at their preschools, in their homes or at the Child’s Play Therapy clinic. But the COVID-19 pandemic forced physical therapists like Luechtefeld to cancel in-person sessions and quickly transition to telehealth appointments to continue providing essential care.
While the switch to telehealth showcased new opportunities for how critical therapy services can still be delivered virtually, a new study at the University of Missouri found it also exposed some technical issues for patients in rural areas.
“When meeting with patients virtually, I would demonstrate to the parents or caregivers what I wanted them to do to coach their child...