Initially, assessing a patient via telehealth may seem very different from an in-person consultation. Despite not being able to physically examine the patient in-person, there are other creative ways to obtain information. This section was designed to help you with the tips and tricks on how to assess your patient via telehealth.
Many aspects of a patient assessment via telehealth is similar to an in-person appointment.
Aspects to consider covering in a telehealth assessment are:
> history of the presenting condition
> symptoms and symptom behaviour
> general medical history
> current level of function
> discussion of goals
Objective assessment can also be completed, however regular in-person strategies may have to be adjusted for the purposes of telehealth appointments. Objective assessment may include:
> patient related outcome measures
> observation of movement and injury area
> range of motion
> strength/functional assessment
> neurological assessment
> joint specific special tests
Next – Subjective Assessment