Telemental Health in the Context of a Pandemic: the COVID-19 Experience

[...]asymptomatic people with potential exposure, generally in self-imposed home quarantine, may also report distress, frustration and fear as a result of long quarantine duration, risk perception, and inadequate information [7, 8]. [...]people with pre-existing mental health conditions are disproportionately affected since they are more susceptible to stress than the general population [9]. [...]alternative methods to deliver mental health care are necessary to bridge the significant health gap, and Telemental Health has a unique potential in addressing the psychological side effects of social distancing. [...]these risks should not prohibit individuals from receiving mental health care. [...]Telemental Health may be an ideal solution to reduce the risk of clinicians or patients being infected while still providing care, especially in settings with shortages of mental health professionals. [...]in the context of a public health crisis of this magnitude, and with the rapidly changing landscape of regulations and reimbursement for Telemental Health, consistent access to reliable information and updates on regulatory and reimbursement changes is crucial.