TER036

15 Mar 2026 1:17 AM

This study explored how Australian physiotherapists’ use of telerehabilitation changed during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, and what factors influenced its ongoing adoption. Although telerehabilitation is a safe and effective way to deliver physiotherapy remotely, its integration into routine practice has been limited. An online survey was conducted between September and November 2023 with physiotherapists working in private practice, hospital outpatient, and community settings. Participants reported their use of telerehabilitation before, during, and after COVID-19 restrictions on in-person care. Quantitative data were analyzed descriptively, and qualitative content analysis of open-text responses provided deeper insights into practice patterns. Before the pandemic, 30% (44/148) of participants used telerehabilitation, increasing to 94% (138/147) during restrictions. After restrictions eased, 82% (118/144) continued to offer telerehabilitation, yet it accounted for only 14% of their caseload. Although physiotherapists reported greater confidence, satisfaction, and belief in its effectiveness than before the pandemic, overall use declined sharply once face-to-face care resumed. Reduced patient demand, assumptions that patients prefer in-person consultations, and perceptions that in-person physiotherapy is easier to deliver were key barriers to sustained use. These findings highlight that while technological and clinical feasibility are well established, clinician and patient perceptions continue to limit integration. The study concludes that despite rapid uptake during COVID-19, telerehabilitation use remains low post-pandemic. Addressing professional and patient attitudes, and embedding telerehabilitation within standard models of care, will be essential for lasting adoption. Citation: JMIR Rehabilitation and Assistive Technologies 2026;13:e81008. doi:10.2196/81008