As a practitioner, improving your skills in delivering TMH can enhance your ability to provide continuous care, even in challenging circumstances. Here are key takeaways from the research and practical steps to implement them:
Key Findings from the Research
- Rapid Adoption of TMH: Many countries quickly transitioned to TMH to maintain service delivery during lockdowns. This shift was especially notable in high-income countries.
- Blended Approach: The research suggests that a combination of in-person and virtual modalities could better support future mental health services, considering patients' needs, preferences, and digital skills.
- Training and Digital Literacy: Both clinicians and patients need training to effectively use digital tools. Improving digital literacy is crucial for the successful implementation of TMH.
- Challenges and Barriers: Limited access to digital devices, poor internet connectivity, and lack of digital skills were significant barriers to the widespread adoption of TMH.
Practical Steps for Practitioners
- Enhance Digital Skills: Participate in training programs to improve your digital literacy and familiarity with various TMH platforms.
- Patient Education: Educate your patients about the use of TMH tools and platforms. Provide resources and support to help them navigate virtual consultations.
- Blended Service Models: Consider adopting a blended approach, combining in-person and virtual sessions based on the specific needs and preferences of your patients.
- Address Barriers: Identify and address barriers to TMH, such as providing access to digital devices and reliable internet connections for patients in need.
- Stay Informed: Keep abreast of the latest research and developments in TMH by attending webinars, conferences, and reading relevant publications.
By implementing these strategies, practitioners can improve their TMH delivery, ensuring that mental health services remain accessible and effective, even in times of crisis.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Global Delivery of Mental Health Services and Telemental Health: Systematic Review
