Who suits telehealth
- Patients well into their rehab whose main need is progression and accountability.
- People who live far away, travel for work or struggle to get to the clinic.
- Post-operative patients between hands-on visits.
- Long-term conditions where regular check-ins matter more than hands-on treatment.
New acute injuries where you need to examine closely usually start in person.
Price it as real care
A telehealth consult takes your time and expertise. Many physios charge a similar fee to an in-clinic follow-up of the same length. Some private health funds rebate telehealth physio; patients should check their fund. Some Medicare-rebated chronic condition visits can also be delivered by video; check the current rules before you offer them.
Make joining easy
The biggest problem with telehealth is technology. The patient should get a link that opens in their browser, with no app and no account. In Clinidiary, a video appointment sends the patient a link that works on a phone or computer, and the call runs between the two browsers. See telehealth.
Run the session well
- Ask the patient to set up space and wear suitable clothes beforehand.
- Have a plan for if the video drops: a phone number to call.
- Watch movement from more than one angle.
- Write your notes as you would in the clinic.
Mix it into the week
Many physios keep a block of telehealth slots each week, such as two evening hours, so they do not interrupt clinic flow. Others offer a video review between every second in-clinic visit for suitable patients.
Grow it
Offer telehealth to suitable existing patients first. Then add remote follow-up programs and online exercise reviews for people further away.
Frequently asked questions
Is telehealth physiotherapy effective?
For suitable patients and conditions, video consultations work well, especially for exercise progression and review. Use clinical judgement about who needs hands-on care.
Can patients claim telehealth physio on private health?
Some funds pay rebates for telehealth physiotherapy. It varies by fund and policy, so patients should check.
What do I need to start?
A good camera and microphone, a quiet room, and software that sends patients an easy link.