Effective March 29, 2020, the Chief Medical Officer of Health and the Premier of Alberta announced that in-Clinic visits be restricted to only “Critical or Urgent patients due to the current COVID-19 pandemic.” The following are the criteria for “Urgent or Critical”

1. In the absence of physiotherapy services, the patient will require health care services from an emergency department (eg. severe pain requiring physician intervention or prescription medication to manage pain)
2. The patient is an essential service provider (eg. health care worker or first responder) who is unable to work due to an acute injury or an exacerbation of a pre-existing condition,
3. The patient is seeking physiotherapy for the recent removal of a cast/immobilizer or post-surgery,
4. In the absence of physiotherapy services, the patient’s functional status will deteriorate to the point of requiring invasive management or hospitalization in the foreseeable future.

The health and safety of our staff and patients is our utmost priority. Physical Distancing is the new norm as the world tries to contain COVID-19. For those patients who do not qualify as “Urgent or Critical”, it is vital that we continue to provide a path to recovery if you are unable to attend in person.

As such, we believe Telerehabilitation is an important part of this solution and we are excited to announce that our services can now be delivered through this platform. Below is a guide to our new service:

What is Tele-Rehabilitation? 

Tele-Rehabilitation is a remote appointment that can be done in your home using videoconferencing.  This way, you do not have to leave your home. Your Physiotherapist will perform a thorough history, observe you as you move in your own physical environment and provide you with a provisional diagnosis. We can provide you with the same level of advice, education, self-management strategies and a home program using our Physitrack software program. Other than not being able to physically touch our patients, so much of what we already do effectively in-Clinic can be done via Tele-Rehabilitation!

What are the benefits of Tele-Rehabilitation? 

This new means of delivering care enables you to have an appointment in the safety of your home and provides you with a level of care that you have come to expect from our staff, at a time when there are very little options for care during this pandemic.  Without having to leave your home, this will save you both time and money.  When combined with our Physitrack software exercise program, your condition can be monitored and your exercises can be modified and progressed.

Is Tele-Rehabilitation appropriate for everyone? 

Prior to you making a Telerehab appointment, our staff will determine if this service is appropriate for you. If we decide that you require a direct physical examination to determine your diagnosis or if there are concerns about your condition that cannot be managed by telerehab, then we will advise you to visit your physician or the emergency department. As well, if you lack adequate space in your home or if you do not have the necessary technology, then telerehab may not be appropriate for you.

How do I connect for my Telerehabilitation session? 

If you are a current or past patient of ours, then the transition to Telerehab will be seamless. If you are new to our Clinic, you will need to create an account with us. You will receive instructions with your email reminder of your appointment, or you can always contact our front staff for instructions. A laptop is ideal and you will require either Google Chrome or Firefox as your web browser (not Safari). Apple iPhones and iPads are currently not compatible.

What do I need to do to prepare for my Telerehab session? 

1. Complete the TeleRehabilitation consent and patient intake form when you register for TeleRehab.
2. Ensure you have a laptop, a secure internet access and Google Chrome or Firefox as your web browser.
3. Arrive early at your laptop for your appointment.  Ensure your laptop is fully charged and the microphone and camera on your laptop are in working order.
4. Ensure you have adequate space for the physical examination (ability to lie down, walk, sit, stand, demonstrate your exercises).
5. Choose a room with little traffic, noise and distractions as much as possible. Optimize this one-on-one time with your Therapist. Ensure adequate lighting in your room.
6. If you have previous exercise equipment required for your exercises (Therabands, foam rollers, weights), have these ready and close at hand.
7. After connecting and before proceeding with the appointment, complete the final consent on screen. Your Physiotherapist may ask that another person in your residence be present to assist you with the appointment. In this case, your Physiotherapist will also ask for this person’s consent.
8. Wear appropriate clothing. Light colored clothing works best. Avoid wearing dark clothing.
9. Let your Physiotherapist know if you have any questions.

Throughout this pandemic, be assured that Elevation Physiotherapy is prepared and ready to continue to meet your rehab needs. We look forward to serving our community in-Clinic again but in the meantime, we hope to have the privilege and opportunity to see you on-line.  COVID-19 can separate us from you but it cannot stop us from caring for you.