Telehealth Pain
In response to the challenges presented by COVID-19, Body Logic Physiotherapy now also offers physiotherapy consultations via Telehealth. This means you can still access our high-quality care using a computer or a mobile phone. The service is undertaken in accordance with Australian Physiotherapy Association guidelines and is supported by the health funds.
The current crisis is a huge threat to peoples physical and mental health especially with people being isolated and confined to their homes. With Telehealth, Body Logic Physiotherapy can help you stay healthy over this difficult time.
What is Telehealth (video / phone consultation)?
Video / phone consultation (Telehealth) is the delivery of Physiotherapy consultations via telephone or computer and mobile using secure online platforms. This enables you to access our service from the comfort and safety of your own home.
At Body Logic Physiotherapy, our model of care has a strong emphasises on self-management. This means we focus on helping people understand their condition and coach them to develop skills to be in control of their health. This ensures patients not only get better in the short term, but also continue to improve and self-manage their health in the long term. This makes Telehealth an effective and convenient way of providing care.
How does video consultation work?
1. We will listen to your story
Similar to a face-to-face consult, the physiotherapist will take time to listen to your story about your pain experience or condition. We want to know how your pain or condition feels to you and how it impacts on all aspects of your life. We want to understand your goals so we can help you get back doing what you value. We will also screen you to ensure your pain or condition isn’t caused by serious health problems.
2. We can do a physical examination via video
The benefit of using the video on your mobile device or computer, is that we are able to conduct a physical examination. This will involve you showing us where you hurt and/or what you have difficulty doing, your postures, how you move, your ability to relax your body, as well as testing your strength, fitness and balance. This is an interactive process by which the physiotherapists will ask you to perform a few tests and tasks; the physiotherapist’s observation and your feedback will be crucial for understanding your problem. This process is made even easier if there is another person in the room with you as they can direct the camera, however, this is not essential.
3. We will provide a treatment plan specific to your needs
- Once we have examined you, we will explain your pain or condition.
- We will then set you up with an individualised exercise program linked to your goals.
- We can guide you through body relaxation, and exercises to get you mobile, strong and confident in your body with reduced pain
- We will ensure the exercises are simple, safe and relevant to your condition and to your environment.
- We can email you or send you a video link to view your exercises.
- We can progress this over time and you can give us feedback via email.
- We will liaise with your doctor to ensure your care is integrated.
- If you need further investigations (such as scans etc) we will refer you for them or communicate with your doctor.
Will anyone other than my physiotherapist have access to my information?
No. The platform used by Body Logic Physiotherapy is encrypted and secure. The only person who will have access to your data is your Physiotherapist.
Can I participate in an exercise class online?
Yes! Although the initial consultation is individual, we can provide one on one or group exercise rehabilitation sessions including a focus on relaxation, mobility, balance, strength or conditioning.
We recognise that everyone has different needs, so specific classes will be offered to different age groups and capacity – from kids to the elderly.
What do I need to set up to have access to this service?
Our team will work with you to ensure that you receive your appointment via phone or video link based on your preference. Connecting for a video session is as simple as clicking a link that we will send you, in an email or on your phone.
To make things even easier, our team has created an easy guide outlining simple steps to help you prepare for your online video consultation and ensure you get the most from your appointment.
We ask you to prepare for your consult by wearing appropriate clothing that enables you to move comfortably as well as allowing us to visualise the body area that is painful (e.g. wearing shorts if you have knee pain).
For exercise classes, you will log in to your allocated class and follow the instructions given by your physiotherapist to exercise at the comfort of your own home or workplace.
Does Telehealth work?
Yes! There is growing research evidence that physiotherapists can deliver effective care via Telehealth for pain problems. Research (here and here) shows telehealth consultations are equally as beneficial compared to conventional methods. Plus, it’s safer for everyone, given the current COVID-19 Coronavirus pandemic.
Is this service just limited to people in Perth?
No. A great advantage of Telehealth is that it has no physical boundaries. Telehealth enables patients from anywhere to access to our services, all you need is an internet connection!
Who can use this service?
Both existing and new patients of Body Logic Physiotherapy can use this service. Existing patients can book a Telehealth consultation for their follow up.
New patients can also book by calling our reception team or book online via our website. If you are unsure if Telehealth is suitable for your needs, please discuss with our reception team, email us, or ask to speak with one of our physiotherapists – they will help determine if Telehealth will work for you.
Is Telehealth supported by Medicare or private heath funds?
YES! Workcover and private health funds have agreed to offer a rebate towards most Telehealth services (please check with your health fund if they offer a rebate for classes, as this may vary between funds).
New patients may need a referral from their GP to gain a rebate, please call your health fund for confirmation.
If you have any questions, please discuss with our reception team and/or your treating physiotherapist.
How do I pay for my Telehealth consult?
Payment is easy, we will send you an invoice for your payment and you can pay over the phone or online.
How will Body Logic support their clients in this crisis?
Body Logic Physiotherapy is committed to supporting you during this difficult time.
Body Logic Physiotherapy has provided care to our community for the past 15 years and we extend our sincere thoughts to you and your loved ones.