Telepsychiatry: Frequently Asked Questions
By Dr. Katherine Pannel, Medical Director of Right Track Medical Group
At present, Mississippi is under a state of emergency due to concerns surrounding the spread of COVID-19. Mississippi’s State Health Officer has recommended that all non-essential or emergent clinic appointments be rescheduled. To ensure that patients continue to receive the mental health care they need, we are now offering telepsychiatry services for current and new patients.
For patients unfamiliar with telepsychiatry, we have put together a list of common questions. If you would like additional information, please call us at (662)-234-7601.
What is telepsychiatry?
Telepsychiatry is the use of remote contact methods, such as phone calls or video conferencing, to administer mental health services. The use of telepsychiatry provides convenient access to care when patients are unable to see providers in person. At this time, Right Track Medical Group is using phone calls as our primary method of telepsychiatry.
Why am I receiving mental health services via telepsychiatry instead of in person?
At present, Mississippi is under a state of emergency due to concerns surrounding the spread of COVID-19. Mississippi’s State Health Officer has recommended that all non-essential or emergent clinic appointments be rescheduled. Because we understand the importance of receiving regular mental health treatment, Right Track Medical Group is committed to maintaining our patients’ access to mental health services, even if they cannot be performed in person.
How will a telespychiatry appointment differ from an in-person appointment?
Instead of visiting a clinic, you will receive a call from your provider at your scheduled appointment time. Other than the change in location, the services you receive will remain the same.
If I am not currently a Right Track patient, can I access telepsychiatry services?
Yes, we continue to accept new patients. It is crucial, especially at this time, that you take care of your mental health just as much as your physical. If you would like additional information or would like to make an appointment, please call our office at (662)-234-7601.
How can I get the most out of my telepsychiatry appointment?
Throughout this process, make sure you remain committed to your treatment plan and ensure you are just as engaged with your provider as you would be at an in-person appointment. Make sure that you are ready at the time of your appointment so that you can maximize your allotted time with your provider. Try to be in an area that is free of any noise or distraction to ensure you can speak freely with your provider just as you would at an in-office appointment.
Will I have access to medication management even if I can’t come into the office?
Yes, access to medication management will still be available. Right Track Medical Group is doing everything possible to keep its patients safe, which includes limiting in-person office visits to emergencies only. However, our level of services will not change even though they are being delivered through telepsychiatry. We will continue to provide all of our usual services, including evaluation, therapy and medication management.
Is telepsychiatry as effective as in-person treatment?
According to the American Psychiatric Association, there is a wealth of evidence that because telepsychiatry increases access to care, it leads to improved outcomes and higher patient satisfaction. Telepsychiatry has also been found to be equivalent to in-person care in diagnostic accuracy, patient privacy and treatment effectiveness.
At Right Track Medical Group, our primary concern is the health and safety of our patients. In times of considerable uncertainty and increased stress and anxiety, patients can be assured that Right Track Medical Group is there to support them and their mental health every step of the way.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call our office at (662)-234-7601.
To learn more about coronavirus (COVID-19) and best practices for prevention, visit https://www.coronavirus.ms.gov.
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