CASE MANAGERS’ PERCEPTIONS ABOUT SYNCHRONOUS TELEREHABILITATION VERSUS CLINIC-BASED PHYSICAL THERAPY SERVICES FOR PEOPLE WITH SPINAL CORD INJURY

International Journal of Telerehabilitation, 2021 · DOI: 10.5195/ijt.2021.6392 · Published: September 1, 2021

Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation Telehealth & Digital Health

Simple Explanation

This study explores the perceptions of workers’ compensation case managers regarding the advantages and disadvantages of synchronous telerehabilitation versus clinic-based physical therapy services for people with SCI. The results showed a significant preference for clinic-based physical therapy services, with relative experience affecting perceptions. Only travel convenience significantly differed as a reason for recommending one service delivery method over the other. The study suggests a need for additional education due to the incongruity between perceptions about telerehabilitation and existing literature about its cost, convenience, and efficacy.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

89 case managers

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Case managers showed a significant preference for clinic-based physical therapy services over synchronous telerehabilitation for individuals with spinal cord injuries.
2
Experience with the two service delivery models significantly influenced perceptions, suggesting that familiarity plays a crucial role in acceptance.
3
Travel convenience was the only factor that significantly differentiated recommendations, with telerehabilitation being favored for its convenience.

Research Summary

This study explored case managers’ perceptions of synchronous telerehabilitation versus clinic-based physical therapy for individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). The findings revealed a preference for clinic-based services, influenced by experience, and highlighted the importance of travel convenience in telerehabilitation recommendations. The study concludes that additional education is needed to align perceptions with existing research on telerehabilitation's cost, convenience, and efficacy.

Practical Implications

Educational Programs

Develop targeted educational programs for case managers to enhance their understanding and acceptance of synchronous telerehabilitation.

Highlighting Convenience

Emphasize the travel convenience and accessibility benefits of telerehabilitation to address key decision-making factors.

Further Research

Conduct further research to document the advantages and disadvantages of telerehabilitation, especially regarding service quality and effectiveness as compared to clinic-based services.