Telehealth, also known as telerehabilitation, is the delivery of healthcare services remotely using technology such as video conferencing, phone calls, or messaging. The use of telehealth in onco-physiotherapy has been growing in recent years, and it has become even more prevalent during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Telehealth in onco-physiotherapy allows cancer patients to receive physiotherapy treatment remotely, which can be beneficial for those who are unable to attend in-person appointments. This includes patients who live in remote areas, patients who have mobility issues, and patients who are immunocompromised or have been advised to self-isolate.
One of the main benefits of telehealth in onco-physiotherapy is that it allows patients to receive treatment in the comfort of their own home. This can be especially important for cancer patients who may be feeling weak or unwell and would prefer not to travel to a clinic. Telehealth also eliminates the need for patients to take time off work or arrange for transportation, which can be a significant burden for some patients.
Telehealth in onco-physiotherapy typically involves a physiotherapist conducting a virtual consultation with the patient, during which they will assess the patient’s condition and develop a treatment plan. The physiotherapist will then provide instructions and guidance for exercises and other therapies that the patient can do at home. Patients can also use telehealth to receive follow-up care and have their progress monitored.
Telehealth in onco-physiotherapy has been shown to be effective in improving the physical function of cancer patients. Studies have found that patients who received telehealth physiotherapy had similar outcomes to those who received in-person physiotherapy, and that they were satisfied with the care they received.
In conclusion, telehealth in onco-physiotherapy is a convenient and effective way for cancer patients to receive physiotherapy treatment. It allows patients to receive treatment in the comfort of their own home, eliminates the need for transportation and reduces the burden of cancer treatment. Telehealth also allows patients to continue with their treatment and care during pandemics or other situations where in-person appointments are not possible.