Telepsychiatry has started forming its own healthcare niche. In 1995, the American Psychiatric Association (APA) released a paper in support of telepsychiatry, explaining how it can overcome geographical limitations, provide greater access to care, and cut out travel time. For over 20 years there has been talk of implementing telepsychiatry into the mental health sector, however the pace of implementation has recently picked up.
James Varrell MD a licensed psychiatrist started working in telepsychiatry in 1999 and now oversees more than 200 psychiatrists at InSight. Throughout his time in the field Varrell has seen a growing need to expand the practice of telepsychiatry. As the provider shortage continues in the US, more and more people are lacking access to healthcare. Currently 55% of US counties are without any psychiatrists according to Kaiser Telepsychiatry can help provide mental healthcare access to those counties.
Varrell has found telepsychiatry to be effective in most realms of mental healthcare, from working in the ER with people in crisis, to working with translators remotely, to having increased volume devices for the elderly or hard of hearing. Telehealth allows for all types of people to connect from nearly anywhere anytime and receive the accommodations they need.
Everyday more and more psychiatrists and healthcare providers are joining the telehealth sector. With the shortage of healthcare providers continuing in the US, telehealth technology will greatly improve people’s access to care and increase the regions through which providers can connect with clients.
Some believe that physical healthcare services cannot be provided adequately through a virtual interface. While this may be true for some fields of medicine, psychiatrists are not encourage to touch clients in the first place. Meaning telepsychiatry is truly a great option for them to connect with their clients and perform all general psychiatric care needs.
If you are interested in entering the world of telepsychiatry check out our website to learn how you can join for free! Clocktree is a great platform for mental health providers and is 100% HIPAA compliant. Good luck with your first steps toward a virtual practice!
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