Intermountain Health provides virtual physical therapy services in Utah and Colorado, allowing patients to receive expert guidance from licensed physical therapists through video visits from home. The Connect Care program offers scheduled appointments designed to help patients manage pain and restore mobility without the need for clinic travel.
Program availability and eligibility
The virtual physical therapy program operates Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. According to Intermountain Health, the service is eligible for both FSA and HSA funds. Patients can access these services without a formal referral, and the organization noted there is no charge for visits that result in a referral to further care.
How to book an appointment
To begin a visit, patients must use the Intermountain Health MyChart App. The process involves selecting the Virtual Visit option and starting a scheduled Connect Care visit. After the patient selects their current location, they can choose the Connect Care: Physical Therapy practice and select a specific provider for their appointment.
What to expect during visits
During a scheduled 40-minute appointment, licensed physical therapists perform a virtual evaluation of the patient. Following this evaluation, the therapist develops a personalized plan of care and guides the patient through specific exercises tailored to their individual needs.
Benefits of virtual care delivery
Intermountain Health stated that virtual physical therapy has been shown to be as effective as in-person care for many musculoskeletal conditions. The organization noted that this method can save patients both time and money by eliminating the need to travel to a physical clinic.
Conditions treated through Connect Care
The Connect Care program treats a wide range of medical conditions. This includes back and neck pain, as well as shoulder, knee, hip, and ankle pain or mobility issues. Specific shoulder conditions addressed include rotator cuff injuries, impingement, and frozen shoulder. For knee-related issues, the service covers ACL, meniscus, and arthritis-related concerns.
Additionally, the virtual services address sports and overuse injuries, postsurgical rehabilitation, arthritis, joint pain, tendon and muscle strains, and chronic pain or mobility limitations. The program also provides specialized care for balance problems and fall prevention.
Beyond general musculoskeletal care, Intermountain Health offers pelvic health services through the virtual platform. These services are designed to treat pelvic pain, incontinence, and concerns related to pregnancy or postpartum recovery.
While the physical therapists provide expert guidance and exercise instruction, Intermountain Health clarified that Connect Care physical therapy clinics do not prescribe medications. Patients who have questions regarding medication or require a new prescription are instructed to contact their physician or another qualified medical provider.
Regarding insurance and payment, Intermountain Health accepts most insurance plans for these virtual visits, though coverage may vary by specific plan. The organization advises patients to check with their insurance provider for specific details. Cash-pay options are also available for those not using insurance.
If a patient requires more intensive or expanded therapy options following their virtual visit, Intermountain Health providers can connect them with additional resources through Intermountain Physical Therapy & Rehabilitation.
Patients can manage their medical records, appointments, and test results through the Intermountain Health patient portal. The organization provides a downloadable app to facilitate access to these virtual care options and other health management tools.
