While other industries can pause and stop their operations during the pandemic, the healthcare industry is different. People will need it. Clinics, hospitals, and other businesses must continuously operate to provide for this need. Health is always an important topic, and now that modern life is transitioning online, the healthcare industry is also finding its way to adapt.
Introducing Telepsychiatry
Telepsychiatry is simply the telemedicine version for psychiatry. In other words, it is the delivery of psychiatric services to patients using telecommunications technology like audio or video conferencing. It is an innovation that healthcare professionals in the field provided to address psychiatric needs during this crucial time.
In this setup, a professional and licensed psychiatrist is paired with a patient. Although not meeting physically, they directly interact with each other through video chat. The process would still be the same—the patient consults with the doctor about their mental health concerns, and the doctor does his best in coming up with the best explanation and solution for their patients.
The service can also be used in various settings, such as hospitals, outpatient clinics, private practice, nursing homes, military treatment facilities, and others. To compensate for the lack of physical interaction, the online setup allows the uploading of materials, like images or videos and other related vital medical information for a later review.
The Advantages of Telepsychiatry
The online world has made shopping, attending classes and workshops, or even catching up with friends and family more convenient. Technology also brought the same positive effects to patients.
Mental health is not an easy topic for all, but people feel more relaxed and comfortable speaking about their concerns since they are in a comfortable environment. The modern setup can make patients feel safer and secure.
Here are the other ways telepsychiatry can be of help to more patients:
- Quick Access: Since the consultation can be done online, more people can access the service whenever they need one. Not all areas in the US have such service. Some patients from rural areas need to travel to the city to get the consultation they need. Thanks to the online appointments, they no longer need to delay their needs.
- Can Lead to Better Outcomes: During telepsychiatry, each consultation involves both primary care and behavioral care. When these two topics are concerned, it can lead to better results.
- Effortless Checkup: With its provided ease of accessibility, patients no longer need to take time off work or acquire childcare services while they go on a trip to visit their psychiatrist. There is also no need for them to drive or travel far.
- No More Dealing With Stigma: Unfortunately, some people still feel shameful about seeking mental health help from experts. While that is another battle to overcome, telepsychiatry will help lessen the stigma surrounding the service.
- Sustained Care: The ease in accessibility also makes the follow-up checkups more convenient. Therefore, the psychiatrist can monitor the patient’s improvement better.
Conclusion
Telepsychiatry is a fast and straightforward way to address your psychiatry needs in the most convenient way possible. It makes it more accessible to people and brings many other benefits that positively influence people’s mental and emotional health. If you are a patient in need of a service, you can schedule an appointment with your doctor, regular provider—all here at Amodeus Healthcare.
At Amodeus Healthcare, we use video conferencing software that is HIPAA compliant to ensure the safety and confidentiality of your online consultations. We evaluate our clients thoroughly to give them the right diagnosis and proper treatment plan. Call us at (603) 305-7076 or at [email protected] to book your appointment.