Fysioterapeuten (Oct 2020)
«Close, but distant». A qualitative meta synthesis on patient experience with physical therapy through telerehabilitation
Abstract
Background: Rehabilitation is a fundamental part of physical therapy. The introducing of several national action plans with focus on digitalization, indicates that traditional rehabilitation has to be altered and modified. Tele-rehabilitation is a specific approach that states to increase availability and to contribute to more efficient services. The main purpose of this study was to investigate patients experience with physiotherapy by distance. Method: Qualitative meta synthesis. Literature search through databases PubMed, Svemed+, Embase, AMED and CINAHL. The findings of the study are analysed as interview (-based) data. Findings: Four qualitative studies were included for analysis. Three main topics were then drafted through the analysis: «the significance of human relations», «motivation and mastery experiences» and «challenges with technology». Conclusion: This study adds insight to the current research field on how patients experience physiotherapy by distance. Findings indicates that experiences of continuous support from the therapist as an important factor in a tele-rehabilitation process. This kind of open approach contributed to a feeling of control of one’s own health and at the same time, mastery. Several of the informants felt a lack of physical contact with the therapist. For many, a factor that was essential for having a good experience, was the use of high-quality equipment.
