Virtual Physio
Virtual physiotherapy appointments adhere to the same professional standards as in-person treatment. Assessment, diagnosis, and treatment is performed using video-conferencing technology. It is easy to use and works like video-chatting on platforms you may already use like Zoom or Facetime. However, the platform we use at CARYphysio is more secure and compliant with Ontario’s Personal Health Information Protection Act (PHIPA). It has been endorsed for virtual physiotherapy care by the Canadian Association of Physiotherapists (1) and the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario (2).
You won’t need to install any programs. All you need is a device with a camera that can connect to the internet (like a smartphone, tablet, or computer) and you’re all set.
Your Appointment: Assessment, Diagnosis, Treatment
Research has demonstrated that there is no difference in diagnostic accuracy, treatment outcomes, or patient satisfaction with Virtual vs. standard in-person care. Cary will conduct a thorough subjective interview; he will ask questions about your goals, past medical history, aggravating and relieving factors, and experience with the pain. Following this, Cary will perform a physical exam. He may ask you to perform certain movements assessing your strength and range of motion. Through this process, Cary will figure out the key issues and any underlying causes. He will then clearly communicate your Diagnosis.
Although the Assessment and Diagnosis are very similar to an in-person session, the Treatment portion of your care is where things get interesting.
Cary has found that through virtual physiotherapy he can be just as effective, if not more so, compared to in-person care. A finding that is supported within the literature.
Without a reliance on his hands / needling to provide temporary relief, he has been pushed to dive deeper into his skill set.
The focus shifts away from dependency on a health care professional and more towards self-care / empowerment through an active approach. Through in-depth patient education, activity modification, and exercise prescription, Cary has given control over the symptoms back to his patients.
After Your Appointment
Following your initial Assessment, you will be sent by email:
A clear and comprehensive note that summarizes you appointment including your diagnosis and treatment plan.
Any exercises you may need which include all relevant parameters as well as pictures and videos ensuring proper technique.
With your consent, an initial consult note will be sent to your family doctor and kept on file at their office. At your discretion, you can share your note with anyone you like, such as a local therapist or a trainer / coach who is interested in not flaring up an injury. You will be encouraged to reach out to Cary early and often, should you have any questions.
Technology
A goal of CARYphysio is to take down barriers / improve access without sacrificing quality of care. From the comfort of your home or office and at a time that is convenient, you will have direct access to a physiotherapist you can trust. Technology is a disruptor to the traditional physiotherapy model and is illuminating the true talents of physiotherapists.
Privacy
For your appointment, please use a personal device and a secure internet connection (avoid using your work device / public Wifi signal). Together, we can minimize the risk of a third party intercepting your personal health information. The software used for our virtual physiotherapy sessions is PHIPA compliant, easy to use, and free.
Insurance coverage
Most if not all extended health insurance companies cover virtual physiotherapy appointments. Please call your insurance provider to ensure you will be covered.
References:
1. Canadian Physiotherapy Association. Resource: Telehealth Partners’ Offers. [Online] Apr 7, 2020. [Cited: Jul 12, 2020.] https://physiotherapy.ca/tele-health-partners-offers.
2. College of Physiotherapists of Ontario. Virtual Practice - Expectations Regarding Tele-rehabilitation (Virtual Practice) Based on Existing College of Physiotherapists of Ontario Standards and Rules. [Online] [Cited: Jul 12, 2020.] https://www.collegept.org/registrants/virtual-practice-in-physiotherapy.