Role of Teleconsultation and Telerehabilitation in Cerebral Palsy Patients during COVID-19 Era in India- A Review

Abstract

Recently Coronavirus Disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has caused major problems throughout the world. Apart from all morbidity and deaths due to this virus many patients with other chronic illness have also suffered due to lack of follow-up. Many general and specialised hospitals were turned into COVID centres and partial or complete lockdown was enforced by Governments. Due to this, patient with Cerebral Palsy (CP) were not able to follow their scheduled physical appointments. Many CP patients who were taking calibrated medication for different complication and following individualised rehabilitation programs were in turmoil without guidance of specialist doctors. This has led to exponential rise in use of telemedicine appointments. Telemedicine has both advantages and disadvantages which are discussed in this review. This review also focuses on rehabilitation of cerebral palsy patients using telemedicine in this dire situation where it is difficult for most patients to visit hospitals for physical appointments.