Telepsychiatry in Private Practice

Telepsychiatry is being increasingly adopted in private practice and is predicted to play an important role in increasing access to care in rural communities and other underserved areas. With the current level of need, it is unlikely that all of the required services can be fully met through existing telepsychiatry practitioners. Thus, in light of this new research and the significant needs of rural communities, some of the historical barriers to using telepsychiatry in private practice can be overcome through the use of new technology and sound financial modeling. This article examines historical barriers to adopting telepsychiatry in private practice and offers adaptations based on a large case series derived from the clinical practice of the author as well as a review of scientific literature on telepsychiatry.