Coronavirus and Physical Therapy – How PTs are Making it Safe
Currently, the world of health care is faced with new information and enforced changes (almost) daily because of COVID-19. So, it’s no surprise that physical therapy has also been deeply impacted by the pandemic.
But how are physical therapy (PT) practices – normally a very hands-on specialty – adapting to a COVID-19 world?
In order to protect patients (you!) and our physical therapists, the focus of care immediately switched to Telehealth, proper PPE, and protecting patients while in the office.
Telehealth Visits
For those who must remain at home and are unable to visit us in person, our Board-Certified or Doctorate-trained physical therapists are available to meet virtually through an online video chat that is secure and easy to use.
Even though a physical therapist can’t see or meet with you in person, quality care is being provided. If you’re an established patient this option might be best for you because you already have an individualized treatment plan created. A telehealth option for you would consist of updated exercises (if needed), answering any questions you might have, and performing some already established movements to make sure everything is moving as it should.
You might be wondering, is it safe to come to physical therapy? The short answer is, of course!
- We understand that patients may not want to visit our PT clinic unless they feel certain it will help and that they will be safe and protected. That’s why we are offering initial screens online
- We are continually monitoring the CDC, WHO, and local health department guidance to keep the most up-to-date Safety and Health policies and practices.
- Our front desk team screens patients for symptoms and exposure to COVID-19. Patients who meet these criteria will not be re-scheduled until after a two-week symptom-free incubation period, in accordance with CDC guidelines.
- In line with social distancing recommendations, we are keeping patients separate from each other as much as possible.
- We wash our hands before and after contact with every patient.
- Our physical therapists are wearing masks and gloves throughout the entire session.
- All staff members wash their hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds each time.
- We are continuing our routine environmental cleaning as recommended by the CDC and our local health department.
- We are sanitizing equipment and surfaces patients contact between patients.
- Our clinics are stocked with hand sanitizer and tissues.
- If a staff member is ill, she/he stays home.
If you need physical therapy, it’s best to talk to your physical therapist. He/she can help you figure out the best course of treatment and whether it’s possible to do some or all of it remotely.