Frequently Asked Questions
What is virtual physiotherapy?
Virtual physiotherapy offers a unique opportunity for a real-time interaction with your physiotherapist through video calls (like Skype or Facetime) using a platform that is safe, secure, and compliant with government privacy laws (PIPEDA).
Whether you are practicing social distancing or you prefer the convenience of care from the comforts of your home, connecting with a highly skilled and experienced physiotherapist can help with receiving a diagnosis of your condition and creating an effective and personalized treatment plan.
Virtual physiotherapy upholds the same safety, effectiveness, and ethical standards of care as in-person visits (see College of Physiotherapists of Ontario for more information).
How do I know if virtual physiotherapy will be effective for my specific condition?
The vast majority of musculoskeletal and orthopaedic conditions that physiotherapists see are suitable for virtual physiotherapy. Online appointments can also be helpful in optimizing post-concussion recovery and pelvic health. If you are unsure of whether a virtual appointment is appropriate for you, please send me a message using the contact form, or email me at kanchan.masand.pt@gmail.com with your questions. If you’d like to connect with me real-time, book a free 15-minute discovery session where we will discuss if virtual physiotherapy is a good fit for your specific condition.
Doesn’t a physiotherapy assessment or treatment require a ‘hands-on’ approach?
The importance of a ‘hands-on’ assessment or treatment to diagnose your condition and accelerate recovery cannot be undermined. However, a real-time online interaction can be equally beneficial in understanding what might be contributing to your symptoms. Based on your story of your injury/pain/dysfunction and your ability to move in various directions, we will be able to reach a working diagnosis of your condition. This in-depth assessment will also guide us to create a unique recovery plan to increase your strength, mobility, and freedom of movement.
Do I need a doctor’s referral for virtual physiotherapy?
A doctor’s referral is not required to see a physiotherapist (virtually or in-person). However, some insurance plans do require a physician’s referral in order for you to be reimbursed for physiotherapy services. If you have extended health benefits and your insurance provider requires a referral, please request one at your upcoming doctor’s appointment.
Are virtual physiotherapy sessions covered by my extended health benefits?
Yes, the majority of extended health benefit plans in Ontario (which cover in-person physiotherapy) cover virtual physiotherapy sessions. However, insurance policies are constantly evolving and I would advise that you contact your insurance company to confirm your coverage details.
How do I book a virtual appointment?
Simple! Make your way to the booking page, select the date and time that works best for your schedule, follow the instructions to create a unique patient profile, and confirm your booking. That's all there is to it! You're now booked in for your first virtual physiotherapy session.
How do I prepare for my first virtual physiotherapy session?
Before your appointment, complete the intake questionnaire and sign the consent form emailed to you at the time of booking.
Be sure that your device and your phone is fully charged or plugged in if needed.
Test your video camera and microphone to make sure they’re working. Consider making a Skype Test call or FaceTime a friend if you want to check this.
Ensure that you are in a quiet environment free from distraction and interruption. Select a well-lit room so your therapist can clearly see you and your actions.
You may be asked to demonstrate exercises and movements so be sure to have space to move around.
Log into your appointment with the mindset you would have as if you were going to your physiotherapy clinic
How do I login to my virtual physiotherapy session?
You will need a strong internet connection and access to a webcam and microphone through a desktop or laptop computer, tablet, or smartphone (android or Iphone).
You can use a Chrome, or Safari browser; I would advise you to download the most up-to-date version of one of these browsers to ensure improved call quality.
Your virtual appointment will be conducted using Zoom for Healthcare (via Embodia). Instructions on how to install and operate Zoom can be found here: Zoom
Approximately 5 minutes prior to your appointment, I will email you an invitation with an access/meeting code which you will use to enter the virtual meeting at the agreed upon time.
On Zoom, you will be able to enter into the “wait room” prior to the start time of your session if you wish. I will join the session and bring you out of the wait room and into the virtual meeting at the scheduled time.
You may wish to allocate an additional 10 minutes of time towards your virtual session to account for technical difficulties, troubleshooting, etc.
What can I expect from my first virtual physiotherapy session?
Similar to an in-person appointment, we will explore how your present symptoms pertain to your previous injuries, general health, and lifestyle. I will then guide you through various movements and observe how you perform different tasks and activities around the house. This extensive assessment will help us design an innovative program to a) alleviate pain; b) modify day-to-day activities to hasten recovery; and c) introduce highly effective exercises to enable stability, mobility, flexibility, and strength. We will set treatment goals and draw a plan for follow-up appointments. By the end of your session, you will have the confidence, knowledge and tools to embark on the road to recovery!