Traditional methods of mental healthcare, including face-to-face meetings with a psychologist, were given a high-tech facelift at a demonstration July 21.
The National Center for Telehealth and Technology, or T2, presented a workshop at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, guiding providers on offering mental health services from a distance.
Armed With Science reports T2âs facelift on mental health services includes the use of videoconferencing technology. T2âs research said an estimated 87 million Americans live in places where care is scarce and up to 25 percent of service members screen positive for mental health concerns.
âThe Department of Defense is pushing for this form of care because itâs a way to reach a lot of people who otherwise wouldnât get care,â T2 clinical health psychologist Dr. Greg Kramer said.
Efforts to incorporate the use of remote technology into the Defense Departmentâs policies and procedures has increased in the late 2000s. T2 said it wants to offer more trainings and is considering offering separate sessions for those considering teletechnology, beginners and experienced clinicians.
I would be interested in receiving information as to where and when there are additional training sessions for the experienced clinician. I have used videoconferencing for several years now.
Patrick J. Donley, MD
Col. USA Inactive Reserve
Board Certified Psychiatrist
Distinguished Life Fellow APA
University Place, WA 98466