Physiotherapists’ Adoption and Perceptions of Tele-Rehabilitation for Cardiorespiratory Care in Response to COVID-19

The use of tele-rehabilitation as a mode for physiotherapy services was widely implemented following the onset of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. This study explored the perceived value and experiences of physiotherapists relating to tele-rehabilitation for cardiorespiratory care. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with physiotherapists who provided tele-rehabilitation to adults with cardiorespiratory conditions between March 11, 2020 and December 31, 2020. Interviews were analyzed using conventional content analysis. Seven participants were interviewed; six practicing solely in pulmonary rehabilitation and one practicing in both pulmonary and cardiac rehabilitation. Three major themes emerged: (1) the pandemic presented unique challenges to implementing tele-rehabilitation while exacerbating previous challenges inherent with virtual care, (2) tele-rehabilitation use during the pandemic was deemed as equally effective in quality of care and patient adherence when compared to in-person services, and (3) tele-rehabilitation had significant value during the pandemic and has potential as an alternative delivery model post-pandemic. Despite the inherent challenges, tele-rehabilitation was endorsed by participants as a suitable and effective alternative to care delivery and holds promise as a post-pandemic delivery model. Further evaluation is needed to support and optimize tele-rehabilitation use in physiotherapy practice.