Telerehabilitation in Disasters

Disasters can affect people and populations at any time and in any place in the world; sudden-onset natural events such as earthquakes, climate-related extreme weather events, conflicts, and even pandemics can cause significant damage, disruption to health services, and human suffering. Persons with disability are particularly vulnerable in disasters, with inaccessible evacuation and shelter options, losses of essential equipment and supports, and deprioritization for urgent care. Further, injuries sustained in a disaster can result in new disabilities or potentially disabling trauma. Rehabilitation efforts through all phases of disaster management are essential. Telerehabilitation in disaster can facilitate access to timely and specialized rehabilitation assessment, care, training, and supports, offering tremendous potential to improve patient outcomes.