For a study exploring perspectives about the use of telehealth in O&P, researchers recruited clinicians nationwide; 30 practitioners participated. In-depth, semistructured interviews were used to document practitioner demographics, the services being provided using telehealth, and practitioners’ perspectives of the barriers and facilitators influencing its use. Data describing participant demographics and services were summarized and interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed using thematic analysis.
The data indicated that telehealth was used to deliver a range of O&P services, including initial evaluations, routine follow-ups, and delivery of a device in rare circumstances. Barriers to using telehealth included poor phone/internet connection and lack of access to technology. Facilitators included a patient-focused attitude and recognition of the benefit of telehealth. Once the significant barriers were resolved, such as access to reliable internet/phone reception, telehealth became more feasible, the study found.
An outstanding telehealth experience was facilitated by practitioners who focused on the benefits that telehealth can provide, as well as giving O&P users agency over the choice to use telehealth.
“There are opportunities to improve access to safe and effective O&P telehealth services by adopting a right-touch approach to practitioner regulation and advocating for reimbursement that supports better systems and procedures within clinical facilities,” the study concluded.
