Delivery of School-based Physical Therapy via Telehealth: Perceptions and Attitudes of School-based Physical Therapists

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.
Using a grounded theory qualitative design, semi-structured interviews were completed with 13 SBPTs. Interviews were transcribed and theme coded until saturation was achieved.
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.
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.

疫情期间，学校物理治疗师（School-based physical therapists, SBPTs）迅速转向远程医疗（telehealth）服务模式。本研究旨在探讨依托远程医疗开展诊疗工作的SBPTs的职业认知及其所采用的实践策略。
本研究采用扎根理论（Grounded Theory）质性研究设计，对13名SBPTs开展半结构化访谈（semi-structured interviews）。访谈录音经转录后进行主题编码，直至达到理论饱和（theoretical saturation）。
最终提炼出四大核心主题：支持保障与教育培训、实践挑战、提升服务成效的策略，以及远程医疗的应用效果。SBPTs需克服与技术适配、沟通协作、场地条件、设备配置及临床评估相关的各类挑战。助力服务取得成效的策略包括运用辅导技巧、将远程诊疗融入日常工作流程，以及共享操作演示内容。受访者认为，远程医疗服务可改善与教育团队及学生家庭的沟通效率、提升工作效能与生产力、扩大服务覆盖的学生群体、增进对家庭与居家环境的了解，并增强家庭参与度。SBPTs普遍认为，将远程医疗与线下诊疗相结合是理想的服务模式。
尽管COVID-19疫情迫使SBPTs快速转型至远程医疗服务，但本次研究总结的经验教训或将对学校物理治疗服务产生长期积极影响。远程医疗的应用优势，应纳入学校物理治疗服务的优化考量范畴。