THE BENEFITS OF MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES PROVIDED VIA TELEHEALTH

During the public health emergency, community clinics have a temporary authorization to be paid for telehealth visits in the same way they are paid for in person visits.  Clinics are investing in equipment and training and want to plan for continued telehealth for those patients and services where it works best.  Mental health services have been a telehealth success:  It is a big step to accept help, and our clinics report that telehealth has allowed them to provide services to patients who previously may not have felt comfortable making a visit to the clinic to see a mental health provider.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, providers have seen an increase in depression, fear, loneliness, and anxiety.  Telehealth has become a lifeline for patients experiencing exacerbated mental health conditions during this unprecedented time.