Abstract
Aims
School-based physical therapists (SBPTs) rapidly transitioned to telehealth during the pandemic. This study explored the perceptions of, and strategies utilized by, SBPTs delivering therapy via telehealth.
Methods
Using a grounded theory qualitative design, semi-structured interviews were completed with 13 SBPTs. Interviews were transcribed and theme coded until saturation was achieved.
Results
The following themes emerged: supports and education, challenges, strategies promoting success, and the outcomes of telehealth. SBPTs overcame challenges including those associated with technology, communication, space, equipment, and examination. Coaching techniques, incorporation into the daily routine, and the sharing of demonstrations promoted success. Telehealth service delivery was perceived to improve communication with educational teams and families, improve efficiency and productivity, increase access to students, promote an appreciation of the family and home context, and enhance family engagement. SBPTs believe incorporating elements of telehealth in conjunction with in-person delivery is ideal.
Conclusions
While the COVID-19 pandemic forced a rapid transition to telehealth for SBPTs, lessons learned could have a long-lasting positive impact on school-based services. The benefits of telehealth should be considered in the delivery of school-based physical therapy services.
Acknowledgments
We would like to thank Tara Ebersole, PT, and Jordan Arbuckle, PT, for their contribution to participant acquisition, interviews and data collection as graduate students in the doctorate of physical therapy program at Shenandoah University.
Disclosure Statement
No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).
Additional information
Funding
Notes on contributors
Natalie King
Natalie King is a graduate of the Doctorate of Physical Therapy Program at Shenandoah University, Winchester, VA, USA.
Michele Wiley
Michele Wiley is board-certified Pediatric Clinical Specialist, and holds a graduate certificate in Special Education Leadership, and a Doctor of Health Science from Drexel University. Dr. Wiley is an assistant professor in the Division of Physical Therapy at Shenandoah University, Winchester, VA, USA.
Alexa Rose
Alexa Rose is a graduate of the Doctorate of Physical Therapy Program at Shenandoah University, Winchester, VA, USA.
Andrea Fergus
Andrea Fergus is professor in the Division of Physical Therapy at Shenandoah University, Winchester, VA, USA. Dr. Fergus holds a PhD in Neuroscience from the University of Virginia.