Pandemic Preparedness: Is There a Role for Telerehabilitation?

Abstract

Over the past decade, humans have endured both age old and new disruptions. Indeed, 20 years ago, devastating computer viruses, Category 5 hurricanes followed by destructive flooding, and terrorist-planned events were remote, if unimagined worries. Concern is now heightening that an avian flu outbreak among humans would exceed the 1918 flu pandemic mortality. Experts warn that a new global pandemic is inevitable, could cycle over many months, and might result in high absenteeism and quarantine. The World Health Organization (2005) advises: “preparing for the next influenza pandemic will provide benefits now, as improvements in infrastructure can have immediate and long-lasting effects, and can also mitigate the effects of other epidemics or infectious disease threats.” Non-critical rehabilitation services, for conditions that that do not adversely affect quality of life, might be delayed or suspended during a pandemic. However, many rehabilitation services (both flu and non-flu related) would be critical to maintain (or initiate), even if travel becomes undesirable for both clients and clinicians. This poster will present examples of rehabilitation scenarios for which telerehabilitation-based delivery services could benefit consumers; current barriers; and the breadth of planning needs. Vigorous pandemic planning should commence by experts in rehabilitation and telerehabilitation, in concert with consumers