FAQ

While virtual therapy existed before the Covid-19 outbreak, its use skyrocketed during the pandemic. By July 2021, telehealth usage had increased 38 times compared to pre-pandemic levels. Some parents initially switched to teletherapy as a temporary alternative to in-person therapy, but many have continued due to its benefits. Now that many Covid-19 restrictions have been lifted, parents can choose between virtual therapy and in-person therapy.
This decision often comes down to a few important factors: What are the benefits? And how effective is it? Current research from the past few years’ sheds light on these questions.

Satisfaction and Cost Effectiveness
Recent studies show a high level of satisfaction with teletherapy. A study published in 2021 compared teletherapy to conventional face-to-face therapy for speech therapy, highlighting cost-effectiveness as a top-rated factor. Teletherapy can save families costs related to travel time, travel expenses, and time off work. A study published in June 2022 found that over 80% of caregivers were satisfied with rehab services provided through teletherapy.

Convenience
Parents and clients appreciate the convenience of teletherapy for speech, physical, and occupational therapy. For those living in rural areas or far from therapy clinics, teletherapy eliminates the need to travel for appointments. One study showed that teletherapy reduced travel time by an average of almost 4 hours for families in rural areas. Parents working remotely can easily log on for their child’s therapy appointment during a work break. With children back in school, afternoons are busy with activities like homework, sports, and sometimes therapy. Teletherapy eliminates travel time, making therapy more manageable and reducing the likelihood of canceled appointments. Consistent attendance can lead to better progress in therapy and shorter treatment durations.

Therapist Satisfaction
Research also shows high satisfaction among therapists providing teletherapy. Therapists report benefits such as fewer canceled appointments, the ability to treat clients in their home environment, increased ability to see clients with various diagnoses, and higher levels of parent/family engagement.

Effectiveness of Teletherapy
Many parents/clients initially turned to teletherapy because it was the only option during the pandemic. Now, with other options available, they want to know if teletherapy is as effective as in-person therapy. Current research indicates that it is. A study published in November 2021 found that families felt teletherapy was just as effective as in-person services. According to a 2021 report from the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA), 80% of clients who completed all speech therapy visits through teletherapy showed progress, compared to 79.9% who received in-person therapy. Teletherapy allows therapists to focus more on therapy goals with children, especially those who have difficulty transitioning to and from a clinic. Virtual therapy can also prevent delays caused by factors like traffic. Parents and families present during teletherapy sessions can observe and participate, boosting their loved one’s progress.

To learn more or to discuss specific needs, please email info@telespeechsolutions.com