Innovative Transformation in Rehabilitation and Allied Health Sciences in the Post COVID-19 Era

Abstract

Editorial:

In the not-so-distant past, not so long ago in our story of human
civilization when the field of rehabilitation and allied health
sciences operated within the confines of traditional
methodologies. Patient assessments, diagnoses, and treatments
followed conventional paths, with healthcare professionals
relying heavily on hands-on techniques and their practical
experience. This traditional mode, deeply rooted in human
centric practices, proved effective for decades until the
unforeseen arrival of an unprecedented challenge.
It is said that there is no engaging story without an unforeseen
twist and the novel Coronavirus did just that in our story as it
put the whole world to a complete halt and shook the entire
traditional healthcare system to its very foundations,
transforming the healthcare industry for eons to come. In
addition to implementing preventative measures to stop the
virus from spreading in a highly interactive, multidisciplinary
setting, the COVID-19 pandemic has presented significant
hurdles for inpatient rehabilitation services in terms of
developing a recovery route for patients who have recovered
from the virus(1)
In response to this crisis, there was a rapid paradigm shift in
the fields of healthcare, especially rehabilitation and allied
health sectors. Conventional practices gave way to innovative
approaches, and the industry witnessed an accelerated adoption
of telerehabilitation and allied health services. This sudden
transformation marked a turning point, highlighting the
significance of adaptability and technological integration in
rehabilitation and allied healthcare. The need for remote patient
care offered Telehealth services which is an acceptable means
to get over physical obstacles and safety concerns so that
patients and caregivers could receive the proper medical care.(2)