As telehealth becomes an increasingly accepted method for delivering healthcare services, understanding its impact and potential benefits is crucial for practitioners. A recent study titled Remote Delivery of Service: A Survey of Occupational Therapists Perceptions provides valuable insights into the perceptions of occupational therapists regarding remote service delivery. This blog will summarize the key findings of the study and offer practical advice for practitioners looking to improve their telehealth skills.
Key Findings from the Study
The study surveyed 245 Israeli occupational therapists to understand their views on remote service delivery. Here are some of the key findings:
- Ecological and Effective Intervention: 60% of the respondents strongly agreed that remote delivery allows for ecological and effective interventions in the patient's natural environment.
- Combination of Telehealth and In-Person Intervention: 76% of therapists strongly agreed that the ideal treatment combines telehealth with in-person intervention.
- Improved Accessibility: The most significant advantage noted was improved accessibility to services, especially for patients who cannot leave their homes.
- Therapeutic Relationship: Limitations in building a therapeutic relationship and threats to clinical reasoning were identified as significant barriers.
Implementing Telehealth Effectively
Based on the study's findings, here are some actionable steps to improve your telehealth practice:
1. Leverage the Natural Environment
Remote therapy allows practitioners to observe and intervene in the patient's natural environment, which can lead to more effective and functional outcomes. Utilize this opportunity to understand the patient's daily context better and tailor your interventions accordingly.
2. Combine Remote and In-Person Sessions
The study suggests that a hybrid model combining remote and in-person sessions offers the best outcomes. Use remote sessions for follow-ups and routine check-ins, while reserving in-person visits for assessments and hands-on interventions.
3. Address Technological Barriers
Technical difficulties can hinder the effectiveness of remote therapy. Ensure that both you and your patients are comfortable with the technology being used. Provide training sessions and create user-friendly guides to help navigate common issues.
4. Foster a Strong Therapeutic Relationship
Building a therapeutic relationship remotely can be challenging but is not impossible. Use clear and empathetic communication to establish trust and rapport. Make an extra effort to engage with the patient and their caregivers to create a supportive environment.
5. Involve Caregivers
Remote therapy often requires the involvement of caregivers. Educate them about their role in the therapeutic process and provide them with the tools they need to support the patient effectively. This collaborative approach can enhance the overall treatment experience.
Encouraging Further Research
While the study provides valuable insights, more research is needed to fully understand the complexities of remote therapy. Practitioners are encouraged to participate in further studies and share their experiences to contribute to the growing body of knowledge in this field.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Remote Delivery of Service: A Survey of Occupational Therapists Perceptions.
