Video assessments and virtual demonstrations provide positive outcomes for clients
Responding to social distancing, shielding and lockdown measures, Theraposture has reported that its new video assessment and demonstration service has achieved positive results for clients and occupational therapists.
The specialist supplier of adjustable beds, chairs and care cots has adapted to meet the challenges of assessing and providing equipment during the COVID-19 pandemic by embracing available technologies to reach customers.
The company has used video conferencing platforms such as Zoom and WhatsApp to continue providing assessments and product demonstrations as an alternative to home visits.
Enabling the company to provide assessment-based provision, Theraposture’s team can see the environment where equipment will be used and personally discuss and understand an individual’s situation.
Products are demonstrated via video link from the company’s demonstration room and in context to each person’s needs. Occupational therapists also benefit from this service as they can join the platform – ensuring all stakeholders are included whilst maintaining safe distances.
According to the supplier, WhatsApp has proven to be particularly popular for delivering virtual assessments.
Liam Braddell, Theraposture Sales Director, explained: “As an ethical business, we are focused on providing a solution that meets the needs, wants and risks for each customer. To understand these, we need to assess each client however with many vulnerable people shielding, we have turned to technology to maintain this vital part of the process.
“Our live video assessments protect clients and give greater peace of mind during these challenging times. In our experience, most of our clients are delighted to have this option. If potential clients struggle with video calls, then supporting relatives or healthcare professionals assist, plus we always set up meetings so attendees just need to join.”
Assessments are centrally booked by individuals calling Theraposture’s offices where detailed questions are initially asked regarding the user’s situation and which equipment might be considered, described Liam.
“The equipment itself can be prepared in our showroom so that it is possible to view more than one product in an assessment,” he continued.
“Once delivered, our 14-Day Suitability Guarantee begins. This ensures that should a product prove to be unsuitable, it can be returned for a refund, modified, or exchanged.”
To ensure with customer and staff safety, the company says its deliveries and service calls are carefully managed and comply fully with its COVID-19 safety policy which includes all customer-facing staff wearing fully protective PPE and strict social distancing during home installations.
“We are finding that video assessments still provide us with a same level of detail as a home visit and more family members can join the conversation,” finished Liam.
“Commonly, relatives live too far away to join us for home visits whereas now they can get involved. It is key that video assessments are treated like home appointments with a specific date and time agreed in advance. Overall, it is more of an inclusive experience for clients, carers and supporting OTs.”
Walter Brazil, Occupational Therapist of Inclusion.me, added: “In the complex new world where we find ourselves working to support high needs in the community, I was really pleased to be able to move forwards on assessing needs and agreeing a safe product for my client who is being shielded at present.
“This was achieved by us agreeing a basic specification of need, a video call from a Theraposture equipment expert to the client’s mother/home and then by means of us tying up the details of the brief in a follow-up call.
“I welcome Theraposture’s willingness to find innovative ways of offering continuity of service at this complicated time and look forward to future virtual visits as a safe way of offering input to the most vulnerable of clients by removing avoidable delays through the use of remote technology to maintain distance.”
With vital mobility, access and assistive technology equipment still required during the pandemic to ensure people can remain safe and independent, many companies across the industry have embraced video technology, including stairlift companies such as Anglia Stairlifts and Handicare.
