The Implementation of Teleconsultations in a Physiotherapy Service During COVID-19 Pandemic in Brazil: A Case Report

Abstract

Introduction: The Brazilian Council of Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy regulated the use of teleconsultation during the COVID-19 pandemic, creating uncertainty about its use in Brazil. Objective: To describe the experience of teleconsultations during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: Four patients participated in the study with the following diagnoses: Parkinson’s disease, stroke, peripheral facial paralysis, and tibial plateau fracture. Patients underwent up to 10 physiotherapy sessions via digital tools.  The 5-A self-management tool (Assess, Advise, Agree, Assist, Arrange) guided the sessions. Results: The teleconsultation type varied between synchronous (n = 1; 25%); asynchronous (n = 2; 50%) and synchronous/asynchronous (n = 1; 25%). There was 75% (n = 3) adherence and one withdrawal (25%). As the benefits of teleconsultations, the patients pointed out the convenience, maintenance of the exercises, and contact with the professional. The reported limitations were the lack of the use of physiotherapeutic devices. Conclusion: Teleconsultations contribute to the continuity of physiotherapy treatment during social isolation. Adherence to treatment was facilitated by access to the technology and by offering patients the choice of teleconsultation type.