Telehealth providing a new way to connect during COVID-19

For a long time, telehealth has been used to connect with others who were unable to access direct health services.

Now, with the current COVID-19 situation, we are embracing these methods to connect with clients more than ever before.

With the advice being to stay home, where we can, Beyond Boundaries Rehab are incorporating new technology to continue providing rehabilitation services to clients.

So, what exactly is telehealth?

According to the World Health Organisation, telehealth is described as “…the use of telecommunications and virtual technology to deliver health care outside of traditional health-care facilities.”

This includes using video conferencing, phone calls, email and other interactive applications to connect with others.

For many years this form of communication been used by health professionals, especially in rural/remote communities with limited access to health resources (for example, Aboriginal communities).

Proven to be an effective form of health information, training and guidance, our team is excited to be using these methods more throughout COVID-19.

What to expect with telehealth sessions

It’s worth noting that whilst we are embracing these new ways of connecting, that they are not a complete replacement for face-to-face clinical sessions.

When we get the all-clear, we will be back doing regular in-person consultations, as this is our preferred delivery method.

For now, telehealth is the most effective way we can connect and consult with clients whilst keeping at a safe distance. Plus, you get to do so in the comfort of your own home (maybe, even in your pyjamas).

Some of the things you can expect with our telehealth sessions include (but will be tailored to each client);

• Regular check-ins to obtain updates on your child’s progress
• Work is set for completion via the SeeSaw app – work can be easily uploaded and reviewed by our therapists.
• Prescribes exercises through PhysiApp, allowing for real-time feedback and communication.
• Real-time sessions with therapists – monitoring functions at home, discussing any issues or concerns, therapy sessions.

Outside of telehealth sessions, the Beyond Boundaries Rehab will be problem-solving, using clinical reasoning to provide feedback to parents and clients on their progress.

We will also be regularly checking in with external providers, such as schools, specialists and allied health professionals to keep tabs on our clients and their needs during this time.

Parents are encouraged to reach out to the Beyond Boundaries Rehab team with any of their questions or concerns.

We understand this is a difficult time and we will be working to find solutions along the way for each of our clients.

Why should you embrace telehealth options?

As a parent who wants the best for their child, we understand that COVID-19 presents many challenges.

With these telehealth options, we are trying to lessen the burden and create constructive solutions for your child. That way they can still receive treatment and function as they would outside of COVID-19 parameters.

There are many benefits to these new practices, which is why we encourage parents to adapt to these changes as we have.

For example, some of the reasons we believe telehealth should be embraced include:

• Being able to lessen the risk of spreading COVID-19 to staff and clients through maintaining strong social distancing.
• Avoiding delays in assessments and early childhood intervention
• Ensuring your child continues to have access to their regular therapists and routine.
• Allowed time for us to work towards achieving family and client goals.
• Providing a platform that provides you with an ongoing detailed education
• Assisted staffing that will further encourage you (the parent) to facilitate therapy in your home.

We understand that this can be quite an adjustment. That is why we are here to help along the way.

But, it’s also important to remember that this cannot be achieved if you’re not willing to meet us halfway.

What will you need for telehealth sessions?

Having the right tools and resources is at the core of all learning activities. At Beyond Boundaries Rehab we commit to seeing clients succeed through our rehabilitation services.

This means that it’s especially important we check in to make sure you’re properly equipped with the resources and information needed for each telehealth session.

Our team will walk you through what you will require before any session. We aim to make use of technology/items that most families have in their homes, such as an;

• Internet connection,
• Smartphone and/or tablet, and a
• Laptop or desktop computer with a camera and microphone capabilities

Before the session, we will discuss with you any additional details you will need to know. This will include how much space you will need, applications to download and whether you will require pens/pencils, a ball, etc.

We will also assess the best platform to use based on the needs of each client. Finding a tailored approach, both in-person and via telehealth options, will enable us to foster further growth for clients in our sessions.

Our team is committed to supporting clients and watching them grow. During COVID-19 we do not want to see that come to a halt.

We are passionate about our clients and providing high quality, safe and reliable therapy to you and your family in these challenging times.

If you’re unsure about our telehealth services or wish to discuss any of your concerns, please contact our team here.