Abstract
Introduction: The United States along with many other countries have been searching for ways to increase health care access for individuals living in remote areas, those lacking transportation, or those with mobility deficits. One way these governments have been trying to combat these issues is with the use of telehealth. Telehealth is the practice of providing health care using communication technology to individuals at a site separate from the clinician. Previous research on telehealth has focused primarily on its barriers to implementation. The purpose of this study was to explore the perception of telehealth amongst physical therapist and physical therapist assistants pertaining to its benefits. Methods: This study involved a cross-sectional exploratory study utilizing an anonymous online survey. The survey was distributed to all licensed physical therapists and physical therapist assistants in Florida via email. Results/Discussion: Surveys were completed by 310 physical therapists. While many physical therapists are familiar with telehealth, they reported a lack of experience using the technology. Respondents, on average, agreed with the 13 advantages that telehealth technologies provide. On the ease of use items, the average response for feasibility in the participants’ setting was below agree, but they agreed to being willing to collaborate with a specialist. The participant’s sex and years employed did not produce significant relationships with their perceptions of the advantages. A significant negative correlation was found between hours of patient care and three of the survey (advantage) items. Conclusion: More research must be conducted exposing rehabilitation professionals to telehealth technology so they can further develop their opinions on its benefits. The lack of responses from physical therapist assistants limited the understanding of the perspectives of potential users of the technology.