With the emergence of telemedicine and telehealth, the healthcare world is changing. Health care professionals are beginning to recognize the benefits of telemedicine as it could potentially save U.S. companies more than $6 billion per year in healthcare costs. Already, 67% of health care professionals are utilizing some form of telemedicine or are planning to do so in the next few years. In addition to the economic benefits, telehealth may also be an effective way to help those with mental illness and mood disorders through telepsychiatry.
What is Telepsychiatry?
Telepsychiatry software allows a patient and psychiatrist to “meet” through video conferencing. Telepsychiatry software is also designed to ensure a hipaa compliant video conference or, in other words, a private and confidential meeting between the two parties.
What are the Benefits of Telepsychiatry?
There are many benefits of telehealth in general, but telepsychiatry is uniquely effective as therapy sessions almost never require any physical examinations. A patient can talk face to face to their trusted provider without having to worry about travel time/expenses or missing appointments. In fact, a recent study showed that telepsychiatry appointments were less likely to be cancelled by patients, and also less likely to be no-shows. It is a perfect solution for those suffering from anxieties about leaving the house, children who may feel uncomfortable in a doctor’s office, and those who are worried about being seen going to and from an appointment.
How can I get on Board?
With more and more people communicating online and through videoconferencing, it is likely that telemedicine video conferencing will become more prevalent and even preferred by patients. Many providers are already taking advantage of telehealth technologies and using it to better serve their patients. If telepsychaitry seems like a something you can benefit from, a call to your family doctor or insurance company can help you get started on this new and innovative route to a healthy life.