Electronic Health Reporter

The Fully In-Person Physical Therapy Model Is Starting to Crack

The traditional fully in‑person outpatient physical‑therapy model is under strain from tighter reimbursement, staffing shortages, and patients demanding more flexible scheduling. Clinics are turning to hybrid care, combining essential hands‑on visits with short virtual check‑ins to maintain outcomes while improving efficiency. Hybrid models are not a downgrade; they strategically allocate in‑clinic time and use technology to reinforce care plans. Successful adoption requires clear protocols that define which interactions can be virtual without compromising quality.