The global pandemic has accelerated the use of digital tools and Telemedicine EMR Software solutions by mental health care providers in the US. There is a mental health crisis in the United States and Sixty percent of the young population going through severe depression received no mental health therapy from 2017 to 2018. Fortunately, the use of digital tools has helped providers reach more and more patients who are suffering from mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD. By replacing in-office visits the use of virtual sessions and telemedicine platform makes it extremely convenient for the patient to receive diagnosis and treatment remotely. End-to-end patient therapy can be provided allowing easy access to therapists also combating the stigma of receiving mental health care.
How effective are mental health sessions through digital solutions?
The use of digital tools has revolutionized mental health care in the US due to its effectiveness and greater scalability. A meta-analysis of 452 studies of telepsychiatry revealed high patient satisfaction levels and the quality of care comparable to in-person visits. Video sessions and telehealth are effective platforms to treat patients with depressions and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Online therapy is flexible and has supported patients to receive mental care despite lockdowns and the COVID-19 crisis. It has also helped therapists expand their practice when they have free time. Through the telemedicine platform patients can also schedule live video sessions and phone sessions with a therapist. A HIPAA Compliant messaging service has also helped to link providers to patients where they can ask quick questions and get guidance on relationship issues and stress related to work or financial situations.
The quick and simple access to therapy has helped mental health providers reach out to patients on time before situations get too bad and has overall improved the well-being and mental state of population groups at large.
The use of technology has also normalized receiving mental care and eliminates the barriers to getting on-time treatment by cutting down traveling time and the second thoughts a person might have until their face-to-face sessions with their therapist. Online therapy can be the right first step for patients who need more rigorous therapy in the future.
Key Takeaway
The use of the digital platform and telehealth solutions came to the forefront due to the pandemic. From the provider’s end, it helps them to maintain the right work-life balance and increase income through greater access to patients. From the patient’s perspective, online therapy is a prompt way to receive care and helps to improve patient satisfaction and engagement levels.
