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Aim: The researchers describe Filipino physical therapists' experiences using outcome measure tools (OMTs) in pediatric telerehabilitation during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: Using a phenomenological qualitative study design, researchers employed one online focus group discussion with six de-identified participants through purposive and snowball sampling and transcribed them manually. Researchers utilized Colaizzi’s thematic analysis and constant comparison to analyze data. Findings underwent member checking and peer debriefing with a qualitative expert. Results: Thematic analysis identified the following themes: facilitators, barriers, and recommendations, categorized under three domains. On the OMT's level, facilitators include objective and standardized measures, appropriateness, and modifiable, while barriers include lack of evidence and time-consuming. No facilitators were identified on the carer's level, while barriers include lack of resources, lack of clinical background, technical issues, a non-conducive environment, and language barrier. Finally, the interdisciplinary approach was identified as a facilitator on the therapist's level, while barriers include optional use and lack of handling. Sub-themes for recommendations include selecting appropriate tools, understanding the child's context, carer empowerment, pre-session preparation, time efficiency, and support group. Conclusion and Implications: The study found that barriers outweigh the facilitators, particularly at the carer’s level, possibly limiting the use of standardized tools. These findings instigate the need to explore carers' perceptions on OMT usage in pediatric telerehabilitation. Researchers recommend that academicians, clinicians, and administrators adjust to the current situation by mitigating these barriers and encouraging facilitators through therapists’ recommendations.z |
