Therapists for Armenia hosted our inaugural ECHO Session, featuring a collaborative case discussion using a real case from Armenia, presented by a physical therapist working with the patient. A multidisciplinary group of Physical Therapists (PTs), Occupational Therapists (OTs), and Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) from US and Armenia came together to discuss the case of a current pediatric patient. We reviewed the patient’s medical history, consulted with her therapy team, and shared educational resources, along with evidence-based strategies to supplement the current efforts. After the session, the specialists received a comprehensive report of all the recommendations made, which can be used to guide future treatment plans.
The ECHO Model is an evidence-based virtual education approach from the University of New Mexico. It enables health care providers from around the world to connect virtually and share their expertise through a case consultation model in which we discuss and problem solve a real case collaboratively. For providers in remote areas of Armenia access to evidence based practices can be limited, making it challenging to serve patients with multiple comorbidities and limited resources. The ECHO model offers invaluable support by connecting these providers with a network of experienced specialists—at no cost to them. These events are open to all specialists and students in the rehabilitation field.
For our first session we had an overwhelming turnout of 100 participants from every region of Armenia- that’s representation from all 11 regions! We also had great positive feedback with participants reporting a 66% increase in confidence to support children with cerebral palsy and 98% of participants said they will use what they learned in their own clinical practice.
Thank you to everyone who participated and contributed to the discussion. We look forward to seeing you all again at our next ECHO event this Spring.