As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, La Rabida has begun utilizing telehealth technology to bring care to patients in the safety of their homes. We have successfully transitioned over 70% of our outpatient appointments to telehealth video conferences, allowing us to minimize the disruption of care for our kids. This includes everything from primary and specialty care appointments, behavioral health services, and even wheelchair deliveries.

The delivery of a new wheelchair is an appointment that typically takes place within the walls of La Rabida. With the recent implementation of telemedicine, our team of physical and occupational therapists were able to facilitate the delivery of a new wheelchair to a long-time patient, Jesse, remotely.

Allie Katsiris and Lucy Arellano, La Rabida physical and occupational therapists, work with Jesse on a regular basis and are familiar with his medical background. By collaborating with the wheelchair technician who was in Jesse’s home, our therapists were able to make the proper adjustments to the device and ensure that it fits Jesse and his needs perfectly.

During the delivery of a new wheelchair, our clinicians work one-on-one with families to ensure they feel comfortable utilizing the device. This was still the case during the telemedicine appointment. Allie and Lucy were able to coach Jesse’s family on how to position him properly in the chair, educate them on proper maintenance, and demonstrate how to use the device – all through a video conference.

By utilizing telemedicine for appointments like these, our families have been given an alternative method of receiving care. For children living with medically complex conditions, travel can be a risk during these uncertain times. The use of telemedicine allows kids like Jesse to get the care they need within the safety of their own homes.

This story was featured in the April 2020 issue of eCurrents, La Rabida's monthly newsletter. To view the April issue of eCurrents, click here.