Medical professionals are now increasingly asked by patients, “What if I can’t find a psychiatrist near me?” The answer is simple. Telepsychiatry is a remote, asynchronous form of psychiatric care that involves real-time interaction between patients and psychiatrists. This option is optimal for those who need psychiatric care but lack access to a psychiatrist near them or for those who would rather not travel to get the help they need.
The practice of psychiatry is changing as more patients seek treatment from psychiatrists outside their area. The result is a massive increase in Telepsychiatry services offered by psychiatric hospitals and private providers.
Benefits of using Telepsychiatry
Telepsychiatry benefits are more than just providing mental health care to people who might not otherwise have access to it. The benefits include:
- Improve access to mental health specialty care that might not otherwise be available
(agoraphobia, anxiety, severe depression, living in rural areas) - Bring care to the patient’s location
- Help integrate behavioral health care and primary care, leading to better outcomes
- Reduce urgent care and emergency room trips
- Quicker delivery of care
- Improve the level of care and increase follow-ups
- Reduce the need for time off work and childcare costs
- Reduce potential transportation barriers
Psychiatry patient receiving consultation after searching for find a psychiatrist near me on their search engine.
Who can benefit from using this service?
Telepsychiatry, or the use of technology to make psychiatric care more accessible, is an excellent alternative for those unable to find a psychiatrist near them.
Telepsychiatry treats all types of mental health conditions in a variety of settings, including:
- Private Practice
- Hospitals
- Outpatient Clinics
- Schools
- Military Facilities
- Correctional Facilities
- Nursing Homes
Telepsychiatry provides consultation for more complicated issues such as medication management and acute situations that require immediate intervention from a trained professional.
Recently, telepsychiatry has received increased attention as a means of “bridging the gap” between rural and urban populations. Telepsychiatry has also been found especially effective in treating PTSD, depression, and ADHD.
Telepsychiatry is optimal for people with severe anxiety disorders, autism, and younger patients. For example, children and adolescents may benefit from telepsychiatry because it allows them to feel comfortable opening up about their problems at home.
Other benefits of telepsychiatry include:
Flexibility: Telepsychiatry provides an option to access treatment when and where you want it, making it easier than ever to access care.
Convenience: With telepsychiatry, you can receive treatment from the comfort of your home, eliminating the need to take time out of your busy schedule or find a babysitter.
Privacy: You can receive treatment without worrying about privacy issues since you choose the location and the session is through video chat.
Increased quality of care
Clients and providers report high satisfaction levels with telepsychiatry. One study found that patients reported finding it easy to talk about sensitive issues over video chat than in person. A second study found that clients prefer this type of treatment over other options such as group therapy sessions or face-to-face visits with a psychiatrist.
Other benefits of telepsychiatry include:
Flexibility: Telepsychiatry provides an option to access treatment when and where you want it, making it easier than ever to access care.
Convenience: With telepsychiatry, you can receive treatment from the comfort of your home, eliminating the need to take time out of your busy schedule or find a babysitter.
Privacy: You can receive treatment without worrying about privacy issues since you choose the location and the session is through video chat.
Increased quality of care
Clients and providers report high satisfaction levels with telepsychiatry. One study found that patients reported finding it easy to talk about sensitive issues over video chat than in person. A second study found that clients prefer this type of treatment over other options such as group therapy sessions or face-to-face visits with a psychiatrist.
Psychiatrist performing a telehealth visit after a patient searched “what if I can’t find a psychiatrist near me?” Psychiatrist talking to patient via telepsychiatry Kareo platform.
I’m looking for a psychiatrist near me. How does it work?
The telepsychiatry process is very similar to a traditional in-person session.
In the first step, a provider will speak with the patient on the phone to hear their concerns and become comfortable with the process. The provider will also ask about any past mental health history, current medications, and other relevant information.
In the second step, the provider can conduct an evaluation using online tools such as video chats or email exchanges. These tools allow for secure communication between healthcare providers and patients to occur. The provider may use these tools to gather further information to formulate an appropriate treatment plan.
In the third step, a treatment plan is formed based on information learned. The treatment plan may include recommendations for therapy, medication management sessions, or referrals to other medical professionals who specialize in treating specific conditions. These include substance abuse prevention or rehabilitation programs designed for adolescents with severe depression symptoms.
What type of technology do I need to use telepsychiatry services?
Telepsychiatry is a new way to get help for a mental health problem. It involves technology to connect you with a trained mental health professional who will help you manage your mental health concerns in real-time through video conferencing.
Note, Telepsychiatry is NOT:
- Online therapy
- Text therapy
- Skype therapy
- Phone therapy
Telepsychiatry is an innovative approach to mental health problems combining video conferencing, telemedicine, and psychiatry.
To use telepsychiatry services, you need a computer or mobile device with a web browser installed (such as Chrome or Firefox), internet access (either via WiFi or cellular data network), and a webcam.
Is my health insurance accepted?
Telepsychiatry services may now be part of your health insurance plan. Most insurance companies will require the use of a secure video platform and that you use a provider who is part of their network. As long as you follow those requirements and get pre-approval from your insurer, you should be able to use telepsychiatry services without any problems.
If you do not have health insurance, many providers offer a payment plan or services on a sliding scale based on your income level.
Mother discussing healthcare treatment for her daughters disease with remote physician doctor during online telehealth visit.
What telemedicine / telehealth services are currently available?
Telemedicine and telehealth services are used for non-urgent care and for managing chronic conditions.
Non-urgent care services
Non-urgent care services include lab tests, x-rays, mental health treatment (including online therapy, counseling, and medication management), recurring conditions like migraines or urinary tract infections, skin conditions, prescription management, and urgent care issues like colds, coughs, and stomach aches.
Chronic condition management
Chronic condition management includes Physical and Occupational Therapy services such as remote monitoring services that help you track your health goals and manage chronic conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.
Telemedicine and Telehealth consultations
Telehealth allows your health care provider to offer many types of care remotely. You may have to send information such as your weight, blood pressure, blood sugar, and other pertinent data. Your doctor may request that you document your symptoms and send images of a wound, eye, or skin condition.
Your health care provider can also send you information to manage your health at home. A telehealth consultation could include notifications or reminders to do rehabilitation exercises or take medication, new suggestions for improving diet, mobility, and stress management, and detailed instructions on continuing your care at home.
I can’t find a Psychiatrist near me. Can East Coast Telepsychiatry help?
Telepsychiatry is becoming a more viable option for patients and providers due to the increasing popularity of telehealth. The services provided may differ depending on the need of the patient, but as we know, it can be challenging for patients in rural communities to find care.
East Coast Telepsychiatry Psychiatrists, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, and Psychologists are here to help you. We have an experienced team that understands your needs and strives to help you achieve the best possible life. Schedule an appointment today or call us at (843) 299-2033.