26/03/2020
An update on our current situation.
This time last week we were still treating patients, whilst taking the necessary precautions. At the weekend The Therapy Centre, at Deanwood Park was closed. At this point we were able to use another location, temporarily. However, by Monday, social distancing advice was making it difficult for us to justify treating patients face to face, regardless of precautions that we were taking. This was further confirmed, that day by the Chartered Society of Physiotherapists, who directed all physiotherapists nationally to suspended face to face treatment consultations within the out patient environment. This very definitely includes us.
Our professional body has been in touch with most of the major private medical insurance companies & have gained permission for us to conduct assessments & treatment sessions via remote consultations, using video technology. These consultations will be covered by the patients current policy.
Clearly, as a "hands on profession" this is not ideal. However, most of our treatment techniques are complimented by an exercise regime. Some conditions are best treated with exercises. These exercises can be to help with movement & others to help with strength. We can give advice & tips on pain management, We can give advice & tips on management of swelling & inflammation. So we can help.
It will be strange, & there will some difficulties but I'm sure that these will improve as we all use this technology more.
On occasions we may be able to demonstrate exercises during the consultation & on other occasions we might direct patients to websites that we know about, & are good, where patients can see exercises being performed.
Please bear with us during this time & do stay safe!
If you would like to discuss any of this please give me a ring on 07747 535799. If we feel that a remote consultation would be beneficial & you are happy to go ahead we will arrange how & when this can take place.
Finally, on a different note DO be aware that physiotherapist that work within the hospital environment on the wards & especially in respiratory care WILL be continuing to treat patients face to face as part of the important treatment & fight against this current emergency.
