Pediatric Physical Therapy Telehealth and COVID-19: Factors, Facilitators, and Barriers Influencing Effectiveness-a Survey Study.

Purpose The purpose of this study was to identify the important factors, facilitators, and barriers for telehealth effectiveness as described by pediatric physical therapists, transitioning from in-person to telehealth during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods Pediatric physical therapists' responses to 3 open-ended questions and 1 multipart Likert Scale question from an anonymous survey were collected and analyzed using thematic analysis and descriptive statistics. Results Three overarching themes (Caregiver Engagement, Technology, and Resilience) were identified and accompanied by 3 subthemes (Personal Attributes, Equity, and COVID-Specific Considerations). Themes were supported by the Likert Scale question with Child/Caregiver Interaction, Internet Connection, and Family Factors identified as the most important factors related to telehealth effectiveness. Conclusions High caregiver engagement and access to stable technology were most important for telehealth effectiveness. The telehealth service model met a need during the pandemic; however, emerging evidence suggests that it could be considered as an effective service delivery mode postpandemic.