What in the world is telehealth????

Photo by Scott Webb on Unsplash

With the recent travel restrictions and social distancing, you may have heard new buzz words like: telehealth, telerehab, telePT or virtual therapy. So, what is it?

It may not be possible or in your best interest to leave your home right now. What do you do if you have an injury? Or your symptoms change? Or how about just some questions about your current treatment plan? Enter telehealth.

This refers to any treatment that is not provided face to face and it is provided over a technology platform of some type. This can mean anything from phone call to video chatting. Here at Arvada Sport and Spine Group we have set up the ability to perform physical therapy during video appointments in a HIPPA compliant format. Here are some examples of what you can expect in a telehealth visit:

• Problem solving:

Experiencing new symptoms? I can help modify your exercise program, talk you through some pain management techniques and help determine whether further intervention is pertinent.

• Home exercise program

We can review your exercises and I can watch you perform them to ensure safety and appropriateness for your condition. We can also modify or progress these exercises based on your symptoms and performance.

• Ergonomics

Many people are now working from home. Is your home set up causing more pain and discomfort? During a video session we can look at your workspace and make appropriate changes based on things you have around the house. (check out our recent video on some at-home exercises to get you moving throughout the work day.)

• New injuries

Just because you get injured during this shelter at home order does not mean you have to suffer. We can perform a full physical therapy evaluation through telehealth to address the situation and provide some relief. If it is more appropriate, we can refer you to traditional PT visits in our clinic.

FAQs

• Does my insurance cover telehealth?

There are a few companies that are allowing telehealth PT in lieu of traditional PT. There are expiration dates in place and not all insurance companies have changed their policies. Medicare allows for e-visits which are non-face-to-face patient-initiated communications through technology. This does not allow for a full treatment session but more of a problem-solving session and is restricted to one visit within a 7 day period. We also have self-pay options as well.

• How do I set up a telehealth visit?

Contact our office 303-424-9549 and schedule an appointment. Indicate that you would like to schedule for telehealth. I will then email you a link to join the portal.

• Do I have to have special software or an app?

No. I will email you a link. By clicking on the link, you will join the “waiting room” and when I am ready, I will open our chat. You can use your computer, tablet or phone. Works best with Chrome or Firefox. You will need access to a camera and microphone. When added to the program your device may prompt you to turn these on.

If you have further questions please feel free to call your Physical Therapist, Erin, at 303-424-9549

Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash