Is something holding you back from exploring in-person behavioral healthcare? Maybe you’re still a bit wary of entering a healthcare space amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Maybe you’re new to behavioral healthcare and feel a bit nervous about visiting a provider. Maybe you’d just rather relax in the comfort of your own home while talking to your provider. Either way, telehealth can be an excellent option for a variety of behavioral healthcare applications. If you have a strong internet connection, telehealth can help you bridge any gaps to the treatment you need. But how does telehealth work?
How Does Telehealth Work?
What Is Telehealth?
First, what is telehealth? Also known as telemedicine, “telehealth” is a general term. It refers to the act of receiving healthcare virtually – in other words, when you’re not in the same room as your healthcare provider. Telehealth encompasses video chat sessions, emails, and other technologies. These different technologies all have the same goal: to connect you and your provider. That way, you can receive the best possible care without having to be in the same physical space as your provider.
Benefits of Telehealth
Telehealth is convenient, that much is certain. But telehealth also offers a host of benefits, especially in the behavioral health space. For example, telehealth may make it easier to schedule time with your provider. Telehealth can also help some clients feel safe when discussing delicate behavioral health concerns. Additionally, telehealth makes it easy for providers to share resources with their clients. For example, a therapist can easily send a photo, a slideshow, or a website link with a client so the client has a reference point during the session. Telehealth also offers the following benefits:
- Improves healthcare access for individuals in rural areas, or those without transportation
- Allows healthcare access even while you’re away from home
- Reduces delays in care and scheduling snafus
- Helps improve the continuity of behavioral healthcare
- Reduces discomfort for nervous clients
- Creates a sense of convenience for clients who are busy with work, family, or other commitments
How Does Telehealth Work?
There are a few different applications that you’ll see in most telehealth settings. First, most telehealth providers offer an online patient portal. Patient portals are individual profiles on websites or apps, allowing doctors and patients to exchange emails, schedule appointments, and check-in for follow-ups. On a grander scale, many providers now offer fully virtual appointments. These meetings might take place over the phone, or they might occur using video-calling software similar to applications like FaceTime and Skype. Virtual appointments allow you to connect to your provider anytime and anywhere you have a secure internet connection.
_____
So, how does telehealth work? Today, most providers offer a patient portal, virtual appointments, or a bit of both. These services are all about better connecting the patient and the provider. Of course, not all behavioral health applications are a good fit for telehealth; some services require inpatient care, and other patients may benefit from the physical support of a therapist during challenging interventions. However, overall, telehealth can be an excellent option for a variety of behavioral health services.
Reed Behavioral Health offers highly individualized solutions for individuals and families who have been impacted by behavioral health problems. Our approach is different. It starts with a comprehensive and individualized assessment process so we can determine how to best help you. For more information, please call us at 763-292-2368, email us at [email protected], or send us a message online. We look forward to working with you!