Psychiatric Services via Telehealth in California, We have you covered!
Our Golden State is celebrated for its diverse regions providing its citizens the opportunity to participate in a wide variety of activities and life-styles.
Now, thanks to telehealth whether you are skiing in Lake Tahoe, living in the shadow of Mt. Whitney-tallest mountain the continental US, sipping wine in Napa and San Diego county, enjoying the ocean breeze along the 800 miles of California’s coastal region, living and working in the beautiful farming region of the Central Valley close to our State Capitol or hiking Joshua Tree National Park, we have you covered!
All you need is an internet compatible device, (phone, tablet or computer) access to the internet and a quiet, private space for a scheduled period of time.
What is Telehealth?
Telehealth is the use of telecommunication technology to provide clinical services (health care) to clients remotely. It relies on audio and/or video conferencing. During a telemedicine visit, the physician can evaluate, diagnose and treat the patient, including dispensing prescriptions, lab orders or other orders deemed necessary in the patient’s care. This can all occur over an electronic device such as a smartphone, computer or tablet.
It has become so popular due to its advantages that many clients residing in the Inland Empire within driving distance of our Calimesa office still choose to conduct their appointments via this technology.
What are the advantages of Telehealth?
Provides access to underserved or under-populated areas
Provides greater selection in choosing a provider
Reduces waiting times
Reduces the spread of illness
It is convenient
Reaches more clients
You don’t have to worry about childcare or transportation or time off work, you can find a quiet place, such as in your car on your lunch break.
Saves money for both clients and providers
Allows for easy follow-ups.
Reduces stress and anxiety for clients
Easier access to your records and ability to email questions to provider or staff
Are there any disadvantages to Telehealth?
You must have an internet compatible device
You must have access to the internet with a decent signal
Not everyone is comfortable using the newer technology
There is a difference in cultural as well as generational acceptance
People who have hearing or visual deficits may find it difficult
Some physical assessments or cues are limited
Risk of Security of information
How can I improve my telehealth experience?
Anticipate technical issues, check your ability to join the session 10 minutes in advance.
Provide a quiet and private place to attend session, where you will not be interrupted or overheard. This may be a room in your home, a park table or even in your car on your lunch hour. (be parked)
Use the patient portals if available to download forms, complete scales or questionnaires and keep a list of questions you wanted to ask your provider so you don’t forget.
If this is the first time seeing a provider prepare a summary of your medical history and present complaint ahead of time. This ensures you don’t forget items you feel are important to communicate.
Write down your symptoms, include how long it has been going on, what makes it better, and what makes it worse.
So now that we have a vaccine, will Telehealth become obsolete?
In summary, as we move back to a more normal experience the need for Telehealth may decrease but the choice should remain. Each person has unique ideas concerning their ideal health care relationship. Essential Psychiatric Services believes providing people with choices allows for a greater sense of power over their health care and it is the very basis for providing client-centered care.
