Need Physical Therapy? How Virtual Rehab is Changing the Game

Lee Health continues to safely reopen services to our community in the wake of relaxed COVID-19 guidelines. But if you’re a patient currently getting physical therapy, you might want to stay home instead of venturing out these days.

Maybe you’re unable to travel because of an injury or a health condition. Or maybe you just feel safer practicing your own stay-at-home measures.

Diana Rippl, MSPT, NCPT, rehabilitation services manager at Lee Health, says whatever your reason for remaining home, there are no maybes about Lee Health’s commitment to helping you heal and getting you back to the things you love—thanks to its TeleRehab services.

The online service connects patients with Lee Health licensed physical therapists through web-based technology, all from the convenience of their homes, Rippl says. Sessions are delivered one-on-one in real-time and are private, secure, and adhere to HIPAA requirements.

“TeleRehab is for current patients who want to continue being treated by a Lee Health physical therapist but prefer to stay at home,” Rippl says. “The therapist and patient can see and hear each other. Therapists can assess functional movement and any limitations, demonstrate exercises, and assign exercise videos for patients to do independently.”

Rippl adds, “It’s just like the care you’d receive at one of our facilities.”

TeleRehab is for me! How do I participate in a session?

If you’re a current patient, you can schedule an online virtual visit on MyChart with your Lee Health physical therapist.

What do I need to have in my home?

• MyChart access
• A fully charged laptop, tablet or desktop computer with a working camera and speakers (audio)
• Open space around the computer to do your exercises

How does a TeleRehab session work?

• Therapists send exercises and videos to you either through your MyChart or an email link that opens up an exercise portal. 
• You and your therapist will discuss progress and review exercises. Your therapist can even demonstrate and perform the exercises or activities with you. 

“Our physical and occupational therapists work with you and your doctor to make sure TeleRehab is right for you,” Rippl says. “Our goal is to get you feeling better physically while ensuring you're comfortable and an active partner during your treatment.”