The COVID-19 pandemic has drastically changed the landscape of healthcare delivery, including exercise physiology services. A recent study titled "Client and Clinician Experiences and Perspectives of Exercise Physiology Services During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Qualitative Study" offers valuable insights that can help practitioners improve their skills and service delivery. In this blog, we will explore the key findings of this research and discuss how they can be applied to enhance online therapy services for children.
Key Findings from the Research
The study identified three dominant themes, each with two subthemes:
- Telehealth enables access to services but limits the use of some clinical tools: Remote access to services was valued, but the exercise clinical environment could not be replicated over telehealth.
- Engagement and the relational space are limited by telehealth: Challenges regarding social interactions and a sense of community were noted, affecting both clients and clinicians.
- Technological challenges are pervasive: Both clinicians and clients faced issues with systems necessary to facilitate telehealth, influenced by digital health literacy.
Implementing the Research Outcomes
To improve online therapy services for children, practitioners can implement the following strategies based on the research findings:
1. Enhance Accessibility and Convenience
Telehealth has proven to be a valuable tool for increasing access to services. For children, this means reduced travel time and cost for families. Practitioners should continue to offer telehealth options while ensuring that they have the necessary technology to provide effective therapy sessions.
2. Address Equipment Limitations
One of the challenges identified in the study was the inability to replicate the exercise clinical environment. For online therapy services, this could mean finding creative ways to use household items or recommending affordable equipment that families can use at home. Practitioners should also provide clear instructions and demonstrations to ensure that exercises are performed correctly.
3. Foster Clinician-Client Rapport
Building a strong rapport with clients is crucial for effective therapy. The study highlighted the limitations of telehealth in fostering clinician-client relationships. Practitioners should focus on improving communication skills, using video calls to create a more personal connection, and incorporating interactive elements into sessions to keep children engaged.
4. Overcome Technological Challenges
Both clinicians and clients faced technological challenges during telehealth sessions. To mitigate these issues, practitioners should ensure that they and their clients have access to reliable internet connections and user-friendly platforms. Providing technical support and resources for families can also help overcome these barriers.
5. Co-Design Solutions with Clients
The study emphasized the importance of co-designing solutions to address client-perceived limitations. Practitioners should involve families in the decision-making process, seeking their input on what works best for them. This collaborative approach can lead to more effective and personalized therapy sessions.
Encouraging Further Research
While the findings of this study provide valuable insights, further research is needed to explore specific aspects of telehealth delivery for children's therapy services. Practitioners are encouraged to engage in research activities and contribute to the growing body of knowledge in this field.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Client and Clinician Experiences and Perspectives of Exercise Physiology Services During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Qualitative Study.
