Benefits Of Telemedicine And Telepsychiatry Services

By William Schmidt


When it comes to going to any type of medical appointment, doing so can often be difficult. While this is the case, there are now Telepsychiatry services which can bring medical professionals into the home. Unlike house calls in the past, the new practice involves direct contact between mental health care providers and clients in two different locations. Whereas, there are also other health care providers which are using telecommunications and telemedicine in different ways.

Telemedicine and all associated practices use different formats of communication. These can include, landline telephones, smart phones, computers, laptops and tablets in which two individuals can communicate over a distance. One of the most popular appears to be in using Skype and other videoconferencing applications which provide one-on-one, face-to-face appointments.

In addition to direct psychiatrist to client services, telepsychiatry also allows professionals the ability to support primary care providers with regards to mental health expertise to determine the appropriate referral of clients. In either case, various aspects of mental health care be now be provided through live online interactive communication. Whereas, the practice can also involve the recording of images and videos which can be sent to a distant location for review at a 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 difficult for some people to talk to a computer screen, it is important to remember that it is a person on the screen with which one is talking and not the screen. For, when considering this, it can often be a much easier process. In addition, it can often be easier for people to open and up and discuss difficult and embarrassing issues online rather than in person.

All medical and mental health care providers must be licensed in the state of residence before providing treatment. It should be noted that the client location is always the place in which treatment is provided. As such, it is important that when communicating outside the state of residence, medical professionals and clients consider these factors.

Telemedicine, while a new practice has already discovered that satisfaction is prevalent among clients, mental health providers, primary health care providers and others. For, while sessions may take place over the internet, the practice is basically the same as in an in-office environment when it comes to quality of care, treatment, diagnosis and examinations. Whereas, overall confidentiality and privacy are also of utmost importance, including traditional doctor client privilege.

Ultimately, the practice can be a valuable experience for all age groups. For, research and evidence has found that assessment and treatment can be provided much more quickly online than when having to wait weeks or months for an in-office appointment. Whereas, there are a number of people whom now prefer telemedicine, telepsychiatry and videoconferencing, especially those living with ADHD, anxiety disorders, autism and physical limitations.




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