Do telehealth physical therapists have the same credentials as in-office physical therapists?

The growing interest in telehealth services due to the COVID-19 pandemic has led to a growing number of questions, such as “Do physical therapists have the same credentials as in-office physical therapists?”

Telehealth services have been around long before the COVID-19 pandemic and will continue to be in use for a long time after. However, if you have questions or concerns about the credentials of a telehealth physical therapist at Agile Virtual PT, here are some facts to consider.

The credentials of telehealth physical therapists

• Telehealth physical therapists are licensed physical therapists — If you are concerned about the credentials of telehealth physical therapists, you’ll be happy to know that they must have the same education and license as physical therapists who practice in office. If you’re confused about what type of qualified professional you may see for telehealth to address your aches and pains, other virtual care providers may use health coaches, personal trainers, or occasionally PTs.  PTs are the movement and MSK experts with advanced education and often have Doctor of Physical Therapy degrees. At Agile Virtual PT, we only employ educated physical therapists. So you can know every appointment will be spearheaded by an educated, licensed PT professional.
  
• Telehealth physical therapists operate by legal and ethical standards — Whether practicing in office or over telehealth, physical therapists must ensure that they practice legally and ethically, and they must practice within state and federal guidelines.
  
• Telehealth physical therapy falls under HIPAA compliance — As with in-office health care services, telehealth physical therapy falls under HIPAA compliance. This protects your rights to privacy as a patient without any exception for telehealth services.
  
• Telehealth is an established health care service — In 2019, the House of Delegates recognized telehealth services as a well-defined and established health care service. The American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) supports the inclusion of telehealth physical therapy services in the telehealth policy and for regulation on a national and state level to help ensure access to physical therapy for those who need it.

Schedule an online physical therapy appointment with Agile Virtual PT today!

Telehealth physical therapists are licensed health care professionals who are ready to help you manage your aches and pains. If you have any questions about the services telehealth physical therapists provide, please contact us today.

Agile Virtual PT provides you with access to experienced, licensed physical therapists who can guide you through a personalized treatment plan for your needs. If you’re ready to give online physical therapy a shot, please contact us today for a free screening or to schedule an initial appointment.