Knowledge, Perception, and Barriers to Telehealth Practice among Physical Therapy Practitioners of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia during COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Objectives: Physical therapists in Riyadh have traditionally used conventional methods to diagnose and treat patients; however, the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic gave rise to the need to implement telehealth services. The aim of the study was to investigate physical therapy practitioners’ knowledge, perceptions, and barriers to telehealth and the effects of the pandemic on physical therapy telehealth practice. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional survey study, a self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data which included five main sections, namely demographic characteristics, knowledge about telehealth technology, perception towards telehealth practice, COVID-19 impact on telehealth, and possible barriers to telehealth practice. The respondents completed the questionnaire on their own to ensure that their privacy was not breached and that confidentiality was maintained. Results: A total of 214 participants responded to the survey. A majority reported low or very low to questions under knowledge about telehealth practice. Many agreed or strongly agreed to the questions under perception towards telehealth practice. Similarly, a majority also agreed or strongly agreed that there was an impact of the pandemic on telehealth practice among physical therapists. Most participants were also in agreement with the questions regarding barriers to telehealth among physical therapists. Conclusion: A majority of physical therapists had little knowledge and experience with telehealth technology, though some training and administrative support are warranted to ensure that they become highly competitive in executing such a program.