Patients’ Perceptions on Telerehabilitation as a Mode of Physical Therapy Service Delivery

Aim: Since telerehabilitation is a relatively new service in the Philippines translating to a scarcity in related literature, this study determined the perceptions of patients regarding the recorded facilitators and barriers to this mode of physical therapy service delivery. Methods: A quantitative, descriptive, survey type research design was utilized, wherein a self-reported survey questionnaire formulated by the researchers was administered to the respondents. The data gathered were analyzed using frequency, percentage, weighted mean (WM), and class interval. Results: Findings showed that the perceived top facilitators include less travel time and cost (WM = 3.606) and less exposure to external risk (WM = 3.545). In comparison, the top barriers were technical difficulties (WM = 3.273) and internet connectivity (WM = 3.242). The majority of the respondents were highly satisfied (WM = 3.338) and compliant (WM = 2.798) with telerehabilitation. Conclusion and Implications: With the results of this study, it was revealed that telerehabilitation is a viable alternative to conventional rehabilitation, as seen with the respondents' generally positive perception towards this mode of service that ultimately enhances both access and continuity of care, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.