Dr. Segal has the ability to provide care to patients remotely via telepsychiatry with the use of the Zoom platform. Telepsychiatry is the use of computer based technology to facilitate real-time videoconferencing between you and the psychiatrist for the purpose of evaluations and follow-up visits. Telepsychiatry has been demonstrated to be as clinically effective as face-to-face sessions, demonstrating similar or improved levels of patient satisfaction and clinical outcomes. Telepsychiatry is a safe and convenient way to have your appointment from the comfort of your home, office, or any private location with a computer, webcam, and Internet access.
Telepsychiatry FAQs
Is telepsychiatry effective?
The general answer is yes. Telepsychiatry has been demonstrated in numerous research studies to be as effective as in person appointments while allowing for increased overall patient satisfaction. Telepsychiatry is a subset of telemedicine. The American Psychiatric Association has endorsed telepsychiatry as a validated and effective tool for delivering mental health care to patients. Learn more here: https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/what-is-telepsychiatry
Do I need any special equipment?
The only equipment you need is a smartphone, tablet, or computer with a working camera and Internet connection. A transmission speed of at least 5MB for upload/download is ideal for a strong, consistent, real-time video connection. Simply put, if you can stream a video or movie on your device, then your connection is probably good enough for your video and audio connection to work effectively during your telepsychiatry appointment.
Does it matter where I am during my appointment?
Your telepsychiatry appointment will be just like a regular, in person appointment in terms of the structure and content that you speak with Dr. Segal. Therefore, it is best to find a relatively quiet, private place to have your appointment. Some people close the door of the room they are in or have the appointment from their car. Some people use headphones to reduce background noise and improve privacy. Please do whatever is comfortable for you, but remember to keep your privacy in mind.