What is Teletherapy?
Due to COVID-19, B & V Thera-Pro Associates, Corp. is happy to offer a new delivery method for continuation of uninterrupted therapy services called teletherapy effective March 16, 2020.
Teletherapy is the application of telecommunications technology to delivery of professional therapy services at a distance by linking clinician to client, or clinician to clinician, for assessment, intervention, and/or consultation.” This means that we are able to provide occupational, physical, and speech therapy services through digital video conferencing meetings. The therapist and the child would join a computer-based session at the designated therapy time and would work on the same materials as in the office. We term this “teletherapy.”
It is important to know that this service delivery model is supported through the Florida licensing board, American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA), American Physical Therapy Association (APTA), and American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA).
Teletherapy allows our clinical staff to connect to your children without regard to in-person, time, day, distance or situation.
Will teletherapy work just like a regular therapy session?
Teletherapy is therapy delivered using modern technology. The therapist and patient are in separate locations. For example, the therapist may be at the office while the patient is at home. The face to face visit will be via interactive audio and video communications.
Teletherapy will only be used if it is determined by the therapist that therapy will be as effective as like during in-person, face to face therapy.
If teletherapy is not deemed as effective, you will be notified to change delivery methods to in-person treatment on an out-patient or home health basis.
For certain patients, we ask that an adult facilitator (for example, parent, grandparent, nurse) be present in the room for assisting with technical difficulties or keeping a child on task during teletherapy. If a patient does not need an adult facilitator for therapy, an adult must be present or proximal so therapy may be provided.
The adult facilitator assumes responsibility for the patient’s (child’s) safety during the teletherapy session.
What is needed for teletherapy sessions?
You are responsible for providing the following:
- providing the necessary computer and telecommunications equipment (computer or lap top, microphone or headset, and a camera accessory and internet access for teletherapy
- internet / WIFI connection
- arranging a location with sufficient lighting and privacy that is free from distractions or intrusions for the teletherapy session
- therapy tools and supplies (your clinician will advise accordingly)
Do I need to fill out additional paperwork for teletherapy?
Our front desk will provide you a consent form for teletherapy. You will read, understand, and agree to the information so your child may begin teletherapy right away.