The Benefits Of Telemedicine And Telepsychiatry Services

By William Schmidt


While going to a primary health care provider or specialist can often be difficult, there are new methods in which individuals can now be treated at home. These methods include telemedicine and Telepsychiatry services. Whether seeking an examination from a primary health or mental health care provider, individuals can now make online appointments and complete assessments and examinations through videoconferencing.

The field of telemedicine uses several different formats which include communicating by telephone, smart phone, landline and apps such as Skype and other videoconferencing platforms. Telepsychiatry is one of a number of subsets under the larger practice of telemedicine. In the case of telepsychiatry, mental health providers provide exams, different types of therapy, medication management and education from remote locations.

Telepsychiatry also allows mental health and primary health care providers to counsel with regards to client needs in order to determine whether or not a referral to a specialist is in order. In either case, all such communication can be completed without the need for one-on-one consultation or medical appointment. In addition, the practice can also allow for the recording and transmission of different types of images such as MRIs and X-rays which can then be forwarded to others for review at later date.

Telepsychiatry has already helped clients in a number of ways. For, the practice has proved to be readily accessible and affordable for almost anyone in need of mental health services. Different ways the practice can benefit individuals include, improved access to individuals living in rural area, integrating primary care and mental health care, reducing the need for emergency room visits, reducing the need to reschedule appointments, flexible scheduling around school and work, eliminating transportation issues and reducing barriers of stigma.

While people may be somewhat uncomfortable talking to a computer screen, research has shown that the majority of individuals seem to have no problem. Whereas, studies have also shown that some individuals are willing to open up and talk more about issues and problems than when being seen in a traditional setting. Whereas, a number of individuals who were uncomfortable in the beginning, have become more comfortable after only a few sessions of teleconferencing.

Both primary and mental health care providers must hold a valid license to practice medicine in the state where treatment is taking place. Since state licensing and legislature generally view that to be the place in which clients are located, providers and clients alike need to be cautious when communicating either on the phone or through videoconferencing from outside the state of residence.

While a fairly new practice, research has discovered satisfaction to be prevalent among clients, primary care and mental health professionals. While appointments take place online, the practice is equivalent to in-office visits when it comes examinations, diagnosis, treatment and quality of care. Whereas, doctor client privilege, overall privacy and confidentiality are also equivalent to individuals receiving care in a clinical setting.

Ultimately, telemedicine and telepsychiatry can be a valuable experience for children and adults. In fact, recent evidence and research has shown that assessment and treatment can often be provided far more quickly through the teleconferencing process. For, clients no longer have to wait extended periods of time to acquire an appointment in a clinical setting.




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