Over the past 20 years in practice, I have continually strived to bring into the practice new quality products, technology, and programs to enhance the quality of care we provide to our patients. At the same time, in an insurance-dependent market, it has become necessary to provide other services in the practice that can maximize staff time, are insurance-billable, or are attractive cash services as well.

Seeking Variety

Rehabilitation has always been a priority in our care plans. I had been looking for a single piece of equipment that we could use to provide various therapeutic exercises for many injuries or sport-specific programs. Equally important, I needed to be able to communicate to my therapist about the rehab needs of a large patient base. Recently, we integrated the I-Form system into our rehabilitation program and enjoy seeing great results with our patients.

The I-Form is an advanced computerized strength- training system that incorporates seven machines in one. It is ergonomically designed, results-oriented, and user-friendly. Through a dedicated Internet connection, the I-Form delivers personalized training programs structured to chart patient progress, get optimal results, and meet the doctor's and patient's rehabilitation goals. The I-Form provides a progressive training system. Different from the Nautilus system, a progressive training system stimulates not only concentric and eccentric muscle training, but it also incorporates the proprioceptive system.

The I-Form's Internet programs allow the doctor and patient to determine the overall objective, such as injury rehabilitation, core strengthening, overall fitness, or sport-specific training.

The computerized, high-tech I-Form features a dedicated Internet connection that gives 24/7 access to the doctor, therapist, or personal trainer. The I-Form encourages large results in just a little space. A multitude of components provide the tools to exercise and rehabilitate all parts of the body, including core and proprioception.

The Internet programs allow the doctor and patient to determine the overall objective, such as injury rehabilitation, core strengthening, overall fitness, or sport-specific training.

The corresponding

I-Form program will tell the patient how many sessions are necessary, the ideal number of weekly workouts, and even will keep track of the rest periods. While the patient works out, the I-Form displays the exercises, sets, and reps on the computer screen. When the patient finishes each workout, the I-Form remembers the weights the patient used and records the patient's achievements for the next visit.

Follow the Cues

The benefit to the doctor comes from the fact that the doctor can remotely set the specific routines for the patient, have a trainer or therapist show the patient, then the patient can continue the rehabilitation on his own simply by following the interactive videotaped modeling. Each time the I-Form shifts to another exercise, the video of a model performing that exercise—complete with visual and audio cues—shows the patient how to perform the exercise each and every time. You no longer have to rely on the patient trying to remember how to do the exercise. The personal trainer in our office can work multiple people at a time because we are confident that the patient is following excellent instructions. At the end of the day, I can review the patients that worked on the I-Form. I can download specific documentation on all patients.

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On average, one time unit of exercise, which equals 15 minutes, is reimbursed approximately $15. Or for 4 units, 60 minutes, reimbursement is $60. Many insurance companies may cover this expense. If on a cash basis, the patient can pay for a package of exercises (two times per week for 6 to 8 weeks) similar to a package of yoga or fitness classes. This type of program encourages patient compliance to stay with their rehabilitation program.

We appreciate that the Internet tools of the I-Form allow us to enhance our patient documentation and the education of the health care community.

Kathleen D. Baumgardner, DC, DACBSP, practices in Mt Laurel, NJ. Contact her at .