What do I need to participate in virtual physiotherapy?
You may use any device that has a microphone, camera, and stable internet connection like your smartphone, tablet, laptop, or desktop computer. You will connect with your physiotherapist using secure video conferencing technology.
How does it work?
Prior to each appointment, you will receive an email with a secure link to your physiotherapy session. This email will provide simple directions that you can follow in order to connect face-to-face (audio and video) with your physiotherapist. Watch our video to learn more (coming soon)!
What if I can’t connect or get disconnected?
If you’re having technical issues, your physio can help you troubleshoot by calling you on the phone number you listed on your form. If we are unable to complete our session, we will reschedule you as soon as possible.
We offer a free 15 minute consultation using the same platform we would use for your assessment and treatments. This way, you can see how easy it is to connect with your physiotherapist from wherever you are most comfortable!
What do I need to do before my first appointment (initial assessment)?
We will send you an electronic intake package which you should complete prior to your first session as this will help save time during your assessment. This will include information about your injury/condition, previous relevant treatment, and general health history. This package also asks for your contact details and extended health benefits information for billing purposes.
A doctor’s referral is not required for physiotherapy, however if you have one, you may email us a photo or scanned copy. If you have any relevant imaging reports (x-ray, MRI) or other medical documents, they also may be useful in order for your physiotherapist provide the best treatment for you.
What will the first appointment be like?
Your physiotherapist will:
Is it safe?
We use a virtual physiotherapy platform that uses a secure version of video-conferencing which complies with all HIPAA and PIPEDA standards. Roaming Elk has strict privacy policies and procedures in place to protect your personal information during and after your appointments.
Will my physio session be recorded?
No, we do not record audio or video as part of your assessment or treatment.
Is virtual physio effective?
Yes! I have been a physiotherapist since 2011 and I have been thrilled to see so many patients fully recover from injuries and other conditions solely through virtual treatment! Research in this field has been conducted for over 20 years by some of my own professors and it supports the use and results of virtual physio (or telerehabilitation, telehealth, etc.).
If you’re interested, check out these published research papers demonstrating the value of virtual physiotherapy:
How can physio be effective without hands-on treatment?
Physiotherapists go through six years of post-secondary education to learn a large range of skills and knowledge that can be applied in a multitude of situations. The most important aspects of physio include assessing the patient to find a diagnosis and then communicating suggestions that the patient should be doing or should temporarily avoid. A personalised and progressive exercise plan is critical to a patient’s full recovery and for prevention of future issues.
During each physio treatment, you will work directly with your therapist to assess and treat your area of concern from the comfort of your own home. You will work together to tailor a treatment plan to meet your individual needs. What is better than having your physiotherapist come into your home to assess your “work from home” office or evaluate your exercise technique in your home gym?
Will virtual physiotherapy work for me?
Your physiotherapist will be able to ascertain whether virtual treatment is suitable for you and your condition based on your consultation or assessment. Virtual physiotherapy has been proven effective in a range of populations and conditions but if during the course of your assessment, you or your physiotherapist determine that an in-person session is necessary, we will work together to find options available to you.
How should I prepare for my virtual appointments?
Find a quiet, private, clutter-free room with enough space to move around in. You do not need to have any professional equipment but a well-lit space will help you get the most out of your appointment. We will start each session with a check-in conversation (by talking face to face) so find somewhere that you can sit and talk comfortably. Later, you may need space to move around and for your physio to observe your movements.
Check out this article from the College of Physiotherapists of Ontario.
What is Virtual Physiotherapy (collegept.org)
What should I wear?
Wear clothing that is comfortable and easy to move in. It may be helpful to be able to indicate the area of concern to your therapist (i.e. shorts for a knee or a tank top for a shoulder).
Do I need someone else to help me during my physio sessions?
It is not required to have assistance during your physiotherapy sessions however it may enhance your virtual care to have an extra set of hands. Your assistant can help by positioning the camera for optimal viewing angles or assist you with movements or treatment techniques.
Do I need any special exercise equipment?
Probably not. We provide you with your own personalised exercise program based on equipment that you already own or using objects from around your home!
Do I need a Doctor’s referral?
No, because physiotherapists in Ontario are primary contact health providers, we do not require a referral. However, your extended health insurance provider may require one in order to reimburse you.
How do I pay for virtual physio?
We are able to direct bill to most extended health insurance providers. If your plan does not allow direct billing, does not cover the entire cost, or is exhausted for the policy year, you will be responsible for settling the difference. We accept Amex, MasterCard, Visa, and Internet bank transfers. Payment is due at the time of service.
Can you direct bill my insurance plan?
Yes, we are able to direct bill most extended health insurance providers and new providers are added frequently. Thanks in part to COVID-19, insurance providers now cover virtual physiotherapy in the same way they cover in-person physiotherapy. We recommend that you clarify the details of your insurance policy prior to your first appointment as some plans only cover a percentage of the cost (whether virtual or in-person). If we are unable to direct bill your plan, you will be given an invoice with all of the necessary information to submit to your insurance company for reimbursement.
I was injured in a car accident or an incident at work. Can you help me?
We treat many conditions resulting from motor vehicle accidents (MVAs) or workplace related claims (WSIB) however we are unable to bill MVA insurance companies, WSIB, or OHIP.
Can you treat me even though I don’t live in Ontario, Canada?
We are registered with the Ontario College of Physiotherapists and can only treat patients who are in the province of Ontario. We can treat you, no matter where you are in Ontario!
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