TELEREHABILITATION EDUCATION AND TRAINING FOR STUDENTS AND CLINICIANS

Abstract

Telerehabilitation delivers rehabilitation care at a distance. Evidence shows it can match in-person care across conditions including stroke, musculoskeletal disorders and cardiac rehabilitation. Despite this, most physiotherapy students receive no formal training in it and many working clinicians have had to adapt without proper guidance. This chapter sets out what good training looks like. Clinicians need more than basic technology skills. They need to assess patients remotely, communicate clearly on screen, manage consent and safety and judge patient suitability. These competencies can be taught through a sequence of self-directed learning, simulation with standardised patients and supervised real practice. Assessment should use practical tests with simulated remote consultations and not rely on self-reported confidence alone. Key barriers include poor infrastructure, full curricula and unequal patient access. Training that addresses these barriers prepares clinicians for safe, effective remote care.