Returning to Physical Therapy in Light of the Ongoing COVID-19 Crisis

While the COVID-19 crisis evolves and the virus continues to spread, many individuals still require medically necessary healthcare services like physical and occupational therapy. Millions of seniors rely on physical therapy services to manage their pain, post-operative care, mobility, and fall risk, and the consequences of missing therapy care can be severe.

We recently spoke with Michael Hastry, DPT, the Area Manager for Pivot Physical Therapy in New Castle, DE about the impact of COVID-19 on his practice and what patients can expect when receiving care during this time.

We asked Michael the following questions:

1. How has the ongoing COVID-19 crisis impacted your ability to care for your patients? (0:31)

• Is your practice open for in-person therapy visits? (1:19)

• We know patients are avoiding care to limit exposure to COVID-19. What are some risks associated with skipping needed physical and occupational therapy services? (2:14)

• What precautions are your practice taking to keep patients and therapists safe? (3:18)

• For patients who return to the office for in-person visits, what can they expect? What will be different? (4:21)

• What advice do you have for patients who may be unsure about returning to care during this time? (5:27)

• How would the planned 8% Medicare cut impact your patients and practice if it’s implemented while the COVID-19 crisis continues? (7:00)