Even before the COVID-19 crisis, there were plenty of reasons why someone might seek a virtual option for behavioral healthcare. Many people do not live near a provider or are unable to leave their homes for reasons unrelated to the pandemic.
Thankfully, there are now ways for patients to get much of the care they need without going to a provider’s office. Telemedicine has created abundant new options for behavioral and mental healthcare.
What is Telemedicine?
Telemedicine is a form of virtual healthcare. It allows patients to use technology to connect with medical professionals without having to physically go to the provider’s office.
In the 1950s, medical centers began to search for ways to share information via telephone. Doctors in rural areas sometimes used early forms of telemedicine to send x-rays and other medical data to specialists in other parts of the country. However, telemedicine has only begun to replace certain types of medical appointments in the past decade or so.
Now that the internet and smart devices are everywhere, telemedicine allows many patients to seek healthcare without leaving their homes. Many medical providers, including primary doctors and specialists, are using video chats and other options as an alternative to in-person visits.
One of the unique aspects of mental healthcare is that much of it can be given without a physical exam. Providers can administer talk therapy and other care over Zoom, Skype, FaceTime, and other tools.
With COVID-19 in full swing, mental health professionals are now providing more telemedicine options than ever.
Telemedicine Options for Behavioral Health
Mental and behavioral healthcare is often based on conversation and emotional connection. In many cases, all or most of the patient’s care can happen remotely through a secure videochat platform.
Options for remote care has expanded further now that COVID-19 has changed legal and insurance-related restrictions. The federal government recently removed Medicare restrictions around telehealth and temporarily changed certain HIPAA obligations to allow care providers to treat home-bound patients.
Modern technology is giving many patients more opportunities than ever to get care for mental health challenges.
Behavioral Healthcare at Sunrise
Sunrise is continuing to provide a wide range of behavioral health services during the COVID-19 pandemic. We are currently focusing on telemedicine options that allow patients to receive care from home, but we also provide in-person services as needed.
Our staff will respect your privacy. We provide an integrated approach to recovery by connecting patients with community support services and other health professionals as needed. We are here to provide the compassionate help you need to live your best possible life.
Whether you are experiencing depression, anxiety, substance use disorder, dementia, or another mental illness, we will find a care solution that meets your individual needs. Contact us today to learn more about your behavioral health care options.