What is Telepsychiatry?

Article provide by Francis Dunn, Miami, FL

As the pandemic makes in-person doctor visits risky, many patients and doctors are favoring telemedicine services for treatment. Telemedicine involves treating a patient using video conferencing or audio calls. Telepsychiatry a subset of telemedicine involves offering a variety of psychiatric services remotely. Treatments include psychiatric evaluations and therapy, including individual, group, and family therapy.

Telepsychiatry offers patients convenient, affordable mental health services in the comfort of their homes. Additionally, this service offers rural patients the ability to connect with doctors who would otherwise be inaccessible.

In some cases, patients may be hesitant to talk to their psychiatrist online, but most patients become familiar and comfortable with the process after a few sessions. Although patients will not have their doctor in the same room, patients have stated that they feel a sense of security and privacy with online sessions.

Evidence has shown that telepsychiatry is very effective and is preferred by patients and doctors alike. In terms of accuracy and treatment, telepsychiatry offers the same benefits as in-person appointments. Online sessions have also helped patients maintain a consistent schedule compared to in-person appointments.

Research has shown that sessions have been beneficial for all ages from children to seniors. Patients will need to book their appointments with their healthcare provider and prepare for their appointment with their records, prescriptions, and questions.

Telepsychiatry can be an effective way for patients to manage their mental health concerns given the current pandemic. Additionally, sessions can be less expensive and can be booked according to the patient’s schedule, providing the patient with more flexibility.

Francis Dunn is from Miami Florida. Francis William Dunn has spent the last twenty-five years working within the healthcare industry to improve corporate strategy and product development. He is the VP and co-founder of Medsite, Inc., a successful company that was later sold to WebMD. Francis Dunn understands how to be a successful leader and is often called upon for speaking engagements. His expertise in managing enterprise accounts continues to drive overall revenue for past employers.