Publication
Implementing telepsychiatry in an early psychosis service during COVID‐19: Experiences of young people and clinicians and changes in service utilization
Publisher:
Wiley
Date:
09-08-2022
DOI:
10.1111/EIP.13342
Abstract: In response to the COVID‐19 pandemic, our early psychosis program rapidly transitioned to telepsychiatry. This study examined the change in health service utilization and experiences of young people and clinicians in response to the implementation of telepsychiatry. Mixed methodology and triangulation of evidence drawn from health service databases and survey data. Using a retrospective observational design, health service data from pre‐ (Time 1) and post‐(Time 2) telepsychiatry periods were compared. Surveys were also conducted with representation from clinicians and young people. The number of appointments increased between Time 1 and 2, although this was accompanied by a near‐doubling in missed appointments (8% to 13%). Young people had mixed views about telepsychiatry. While convenience was a frequently cited benefit, clients reported technological issues, isolation and lack of human connection. A preference for face‐to‐face appointments was linked to younger age and anxiety when using telepsychiatry. Clinicians reported improved workplace satisfaction and efficiency but noted some limitations in the use of telepsychiatry including difficulty interviewing and managing unwell clients remotely and called for greater skill development. The introduction of telepsychiatry in response to COVID‐19 was associated with an increase in service activity however, there was an increase missed appointments by young people. Although clinicians and clients reported positive experiences, telepsychiatry was not completely endorsed as a replacement for face‐to‐face interactions.