
Digital Pulmonary Rehabilitation Physiotherapist
6 days ago
Job Title: Digital Pulmonary Rehabilitation PhysiotherapistLocation: Remote in India. Based in Mumbai or Delhi is a plus.Contract: Full-time preferred, fixed-term (Pilot: 6 months November - April, with potential for extension)Salary: Competitive, commensurate with experience (₹35,000 - ₹50,000 /month)About Respira HealthRespira Health is a nonprofit tackling chronic respiratory disease in India by making pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) accessible via WhatsApp. PR is a proven treatment that can reduce mortality risk and improve quality of life, yet fewer than 3% of patients in India have access. Our pilot will test digital PR with 150-300 participants recruited online combining a WhatsApp chatbot with physiotherapist oversight. Draft pilot plan here: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1_W-Edruo27Osg_67O6idbxQ-nCHigNO__INVbl67wgI/edit?usp=sharing Role OverviewWe are seeking early-career or mid-level physiotherapists to support this WhatsApp-based PR Pilot. You will play a central role in recruiting and onboarding participants, conducting clinical assessments, encouraging adherence, and ensuring participant safety. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to an innovative digital health program with the potential to scale nationally.Key ResponsibilitiesSupporting content creation & demonstrating exercises if comfortable [filming may be contracted out separately]Support design of education and exercise video content (breathing techniques, aerobic, strength, flexibility, and functional activities)Ensure clarity, safety, and cultural relevance of exercises, supporting scripting and adapting content for digital / WhatsApp delivery.Record video demonstrations in Hindi, adapted for low-literacy audiences.Participant recruitment & engagementWork with hospital staff to identify and refer eligible COPD/breathlessness patientsOnboard participants into the WhatsApp PR program from both hospital and online referrals, ensuring clarity and comfort.Clinical assessmentsConduct initial screening, baseline functional assessments (e.g. 6MWD, mMRC, CAAT, sit-to-stand test), and final evaluations.Monitor participant safety and clinical appropriateness throughout the program.Program delivery & safetyProvide physiotherapist oversight for the WhatsApp PR program, answering queries and escalating concerns via. Whatsapp using the Turn.io web interface.Recognise red-flag symptoms and develop appropriate escalation pathways.Follow up with participants to improve adherence and motivate progress.Collaboration & feedbackWork closely with Respira Health’s program team to refine digital content and participant journeys.Share insights on participant needs, barriers, and opportunities for program improvement.Monitoring & evaluationCollect data and ensure accurate reporting on participant outcomes.Contribute to early cost-effectiveness analysis and pilot evaluation.Qualifications & ExperienceMasters in Cardio-Pulmonary Physiotherapy (or Bachelors of Physiotherapy with extensive PR experience).Strong clinical foundation in Cardio-Pulmonary Physiotherapy.Experience working with PR and COPD or chronic respiratory patients strongly preferred.Familiarity with PR protocols and validated outcome measures.Hindi and English proficiency required; additional languages a plus.AttributesPatient-centered approach with empathy and cultural sensitivity.Adaptability and openness to training in digital PR methods (e.g. WhatsApp-based interventions, telehealth).Strong communication skills (comfortable on Whatsapp, video calls, and documentation tools).Comfortable working across hospital and digital settings.Eagerness to contribute to an innovative, early-stage nonprofit.Strong organizational skills and ability to work independently.Ability to manage in uncertaintyWhat we offerCompetitive salary commensurate with experience: Probation (first month): ₹35,000/month. Post-probation: ₹50,000/month for fresh Master’s graduates in Cardio-Pulmonary Physiotherapy. Higher range for those with prior extensive PR or Virtual rehab experience.Opportunity to pioneer a first-of-its-kind digital PR program in India.Training support, growth opportunities, and contribution to an international nonprofit pilot.Collaborative environment with international and local health experts.Certificate of contribution / work experience letter.Potential for contract extension and more senior roles as the program scales.