[Nichole Pinto]

Telehealth model I: As a PMHNP, the telehealth model I would prefer is live synchronous videoconferencing utilizing a computer, tablet, or smartphone. The equipment would have access to a microphone. In psychiatric care it is important to be able to have a visual assessment and collect a thorough history. This model and access would allow me to reach a larger patient population as well as individuals in underserved communities that may not have access to transportation to get to the appointment. I would see individuals of all populations; however, I would target our most undeserved clients.

The healthcare issue I would like to tackle in each session would be how the role of utilizing coping skills (mindfulness, exercise, etc…) can be beneficial to manage anxiety and boost mood. My role would be to promote mental well-being, and the benefits of how utilizing telehealth can give more access to healthcare for patients. I would conduct a short survey at the beginning of each visit to collect data on different symptoms they are experiencing and see with each additional visit if they have been implementing the coping skills, and if so……have they improving mood. The legal considerations I would address would be the HIPAA guidelines, consent to telehealth, online prescriptions and state/federal guidelines.

I would involve other professionals such as the therapist and social workers in our telehealth care. Of course, not every visit, but when appropriate. I would obtain verbal or written consent. Some protocols I would develop:

-Patient would need to come in person for first Diagnostic Interview appointment. This would be to assess if the patient was stable enough to treat by telehealth.
-What are the requirements for someone to be stable to be seen by telehealth.
-Confirming appointments, scheduling etc….

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