Telerehabilitation-Based Physical Therapy Practice in the Philippines: Knowledge, Perceptions, Barriers, and Risks

Aim: The study aimed to determine the level of knowledge, perception, perceived barriers, and risks of telerehabilitation among Filipino Physical Therapists during the COVID-19 pandemic. Method: A descriptive, cross-sectional survey on the knowledge, perception, barriers, and risk to telerehabilitation-based Physical Therapy practice was conducted among Filipino Physical Therapists. The electronic survey questionnaire includes demographic profile, knowledge towards telerehabilitation, perceived barriers and risk, and overall perception of telerehabilitation practice during the COVID-19 pandemic. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the responses. Results: A total of 55 respondents participated in the study. Results showed that most respondents (43; 78.2%) considered telerehabilitation a viable option to deliver rehabilitation services to patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, 62% (34) reported that they have a good knowledge of telerehabilitation. The main barriers that led to their limited use of telerehabilitation systems are lack of Information & Communication Technology knowledge, its high cost, rapid changes, and patient compliance (31; 56.4%). In addition, patient data security, privacy, consultation from an unauthorized person, and difficulty establishing meaningful interactions with the patient were identified as risks associated with telerehabilitation (42; 76.4%). Conclusion and Implications: The use of telerehabilitation in the midst of the pandemic COVID-19 was well recognized and widely accepted by Filipino Physical Therapists; however, barriers and potential threats need to be minimized. Establishing telerehabilitation guidelines and increasing awareness will allow better delivery of telerehabilitation services. This study is vital in the provision of rehabilitation services to patients and the advancement of the profession in this time of public health crisis.