[Heather Hamilton]

As a physical therapist, I would like to be involved in a telehealth program for postpartum individuals to support their rehabilitation following delivery. Common topics and concerns that could be addressed include, but are not limited to, pelvic health symptoms (e.g., urinary incontinence), physical activity and exercise progressions, body mechanics and positioning (e.g., carrying/lifting car seat, breastfeeding), and vital signs monitoring.
The telehealth model I would select is videoconferencing to have synchronous face-to-face discussions with the patient. This method allows visibility of the patient for building patient rapport and visualizing an examination and any exercise/movement recommendations.
Equipment needed includes a HIPAA-compliant platform for videoconferencing and either a laptop with camera and microphone or a desktop computer with webcam and microphone. A strong and reliable internet connection is also needed.
The targeted population/healthcare issue that I would address is postpartum individuals, especially those experiencing pelvic floor symptoms or musculoskeletal pain.
My role in the program would be a healthcare provider and educator to the patients.
Factors that I would evaluate about the program include: patient outcomes (validated patient outcome measures) and patient satisfaction (post-visit survey). I would also consider a survey to patients’ obstetricians to evaluate provider satisfaction with the program.
Legal considerations include state laws and regulations related to telehealth and physical therapy practice, HIPAA laws, billing/coding regulations, and patient informed consent practices.
Other professions that I would like to involve include obstetricians and other birthing providers (e.g., midwives), lactation consultants, and mental health care providers.
Protocols that I would develop include: referral pathways and marketing of services to obstetricians and other birthing providers; patient scheduling and communication processes (including patient intake paperwork); patient consent processes; emergency procedures; videoconference visit workflow (history-taking, examination/evaluation, and patient education), regular tracking of patient outcomes and satisfaction.
I would consent the patient by providing a detailed consent form explaining the process and benefits of telehealth, potential risks of telehealth, and what to expect during a telehealth visit, requiring signed consent. I would also confirm consent verbally at the beginning of the telehealth visit.

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