Long-term physiotherapy after a stroke, in multiple sclerosis or Parkinson's disease
In Switzerland, the compulsory health insurance system pays for up to 36 physiotherapy sessions. However, many patients require longer-term physiotherapy, for example after a stroke or if they suffer from multiple sclerosis (MS) or Parkinson's disease. A report is designed to show whether long-term physiotherapy with more than 36 sessions offers any therapeutic advantage over short-term physiotherapy. This would indicate whether the reimbursement of costs for more than 36 physiotherapy sessions makes economic sense. The report aims to review the efficacy, safety and cost-benefit ratio of long-term physiotherapy.
A literature search of seven databases did not find any systematic overviews or studies comparing the effects of long-term and short-term physiotherapy. Results for comparative studies with other long-term treatments are restricted to individuals after strokes or with Parkinson's disease. Data from other countries on the cost-benefit ratio could be applied to Switzerland only to a limited extent.
The preliminary report (scoping report) showed that, for the aforementioned groups of patients, the data currently available are insufficient for producing a comprehensive report comparing long-term physiotherapy with short-term physiotherapy after a stroke, in multiple sclerosis or Parkinson's disease.
Further information
Federal Office of Public Health FOPH
Health Technology Assessment Section
Schwarzenburgstrasse 157
Switzerland - 3003 Bern