Perception of Residents of Ahmedabad on Effectiveness of Tele-Health Physiotherapy Versus in-Person Physiotherapy Services

BACKGROUND: Tele-health physiotherapy offers treatment, guidance, and consultation through digital platforms like video calls or apps, & enables access to physiotherapy services from the comfort of home, particularly in areas with limited access to clinics. Tele-health physiotherapy has gained prominence as an alternative to traditional in-person physiotherapy, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the effectiveness and acceptance of this modality in comparison to in-person services remain underexplored, particularly in urban settings like Ahmedabad. AIMS: This study assesses the perceptions of Ahmedabad residents on the effectiveness of tele-health versus in-person physiotherapy, focusing on convenience, treatment outcomes, and satisfaction. METHOD: A cross-sectional survey was conducted with 150 residents of Ahmedabad (98 females, 52 males) who had used either tele-health or in-person physiotherapy services. Participants shared their views on treatment efficacy, comfort, and overall satisfaction. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and comparative analysis. RESULTS: Tele-health physiotherapy was perceived as more convenient, with higher satisfaction regarding accessibility. However, in-person physiotherapy was favored for personalized care and physical outcomes. 59.47% of tele-health users reported moderate effectiveness, while 88.38% of in-person physiotherapy users were satisfied overall. Conclusion: Both tele-health and in-person physiotherapy services are considered effective, with distinct advantages. Tele-health offers convenience, while in-person care is preferred for more personalized comfort and physical results. The findings suggest that integrating both approaches could enhance patient care in urban settings. Key words: Tele-health physiotherapy, In-person physiotherapy, Patient perception, Patient satisfaction, Ahmedabad