CASE MANAGERS’ PERCEPTIONS ABOUT SYNCHRONOUS TELEREHABILITATION VERSUS CLINIC-BASED PHYSICAL THERAPY SERVICES FOR PEOPLE WITH SPINAL CORD INJURY

This study explores the perceptions of workers’ compensation case managers regarding the advantages and disadvantages of synchronous telerehabilitation versus clinic-based physical therapy services for people with SCI. The results showed a significant preference for clinic-based physical therapy services, with relative experience affecting perceptions. Only travel convenience significantly differed as a reason for recommending one service delivery method over the other. The study suggests a need for additional education due to the incongruity between perceptions about telerehabilitation and existing literature about its cost, convenience, and efficacy.

• 1
  Case managers showed a significant preference for clinic-based physical therapy services over synchronous telerehabilitation for individuals with spinal cord injuries.
• 2
  Experience with the two service delivery models significantly influenced perceptions, suggesting that familiarity plays a crucial role in acceptance.
• 3
  Travel convenience was the only factor that significantly differentiated recommendations, with telerehabilitation being favored for its convenience.