Table 3.

Challenges, scope, and future directions of teleneurorehabilitation for PD[20]

Challenges in TNR

Conducting a thorough neurological examination to assess severity of tone abnormality, contractures, etc.

Infrastructure and cost requirements to set up a technology-driven system

Physician discomfort with using technology for rehabilitation services rather than the traditional doctor-patient medium

Designing a rehabilitation program amenable to be imparted via technology

Issues related to billing for services provided

Benefits of TNR

Wide outreach due to ability to cover remote areas

Saves on travel time, queueing time, waiting room time

Saves on expenses on travel and ancillary inconveniences such as arranging wheelchair, conveyance, etc.

Equal efficacy as in-person rehabilitation for most parameters in PD

High patient satisfaction with telerehabilitation

Scope and future directions

Improved Internet connectivity may lead to increased utilization of technology-driven service for neurorehabilitation even in remote regions

National and international experts may be available for consultation to patients without the need for travel for consultation

Cross-referencing services between specialties, for e.g., Neurology and Rehabilitation services, may be improved

Cognition and other motor and nonmotor symptoms need to be addressed via TNR