Implementation of Tele-Mental Health: A Promising Path but Still Elusive

Abstract

Post covid-19 pandemic, tele-consultations have been an important medium to connect with patients in times of stringent
lockdown and quarantine restrictions. Tele mental health has provided an opportunity for people to discuss and take help
from trained professionals to manage their stress and other mental health concerns. Recently the Union government had announced
the start of tele mental health program across the country to coordinate and improve the network of mental health
services. It is a welcome move but yet challenged with roadblocks at the ground level. Various hurdles such as network
connectivity, gadgets, infrastructure and technical support have to be sorted out to utilize the potential benefits of tele mental
health. Privacy, safety concerns and confidentiality issues need to be taken into consideration with the help of regular
updates and policy guidelines. Although tele mental health cannot replace the traditional hospital visits entirely, it can still
be a bridge between doctor and the patient in times of health crises like the ongoing pandemic. Awareness about tele mental
health will help to reinforce the trust among the patients and transform the same into a viable alternative in the coming future.