What is telepsychiatry (telemedicine psychiatry)?

Telepsychiatry, telemedicine psychiatry, is the practice of seeing psychiatric patients through a video conference platform as an alternative to traditional face-to-face appointments. This may be ideal for people whose lives make it difficult to drive to appointments, such as those with busy work schedules, who frequently travel, or live in high traffic areas.

Is a telepsychiatry visit secure and private?

Telepsychiatry appointments with Dr. Yen are secure and HIPAA compliant, done in the privacy and comfort of patient’s own home or office. All you need is high-speed internet access, and a computer, tablet or smartphone with a microphone and webcam. If you can FaceTime or Skype, then you can do telepsychiatry appointments. Dr. Yen sees patients located within the state of Texas.

Can medicine or drugs be prescribed during telepsychiatry?

Yes, if deemed appropriate for treatment, medication prescriptions will be sent electronically to your local Texas pharmacy. It’s also important to know that Dr. Yen is bound by the Ryan Haight Act which restricts her ability to prescribe controlled medications without an in-person visit under normal circumstances.

What are the benefits of telemedicine and telepsychiatry?

Video-based telepsychiatry can help meet a patient’s need for easily accessible and convenient mental health services. Telemedicine psychiatry can benefit patients in a number of ways:

  • Reduces the need to travel to a doctor’s office
  • Allows for mental health care in the patient’s home or business
  • Access and availability of mental health care are improved
  • Brings mental health care to areas where it wasn’t previously accessible
  • Reduces delays in treatment or care
  • Can lower the need for emergency room visits
  • Integration of behavioral health care and primary care
  • Improved patient outcomes
  • Reduces the time needed off work
  • Reduces transportation costs
  • Reduces the barrier of stigma
  • Allows patient and doctor to still meet face-to-face

Does telemedicine work as well as a traditional face-to-face visit?

Telepsychiatry has been found to be effective in the treatment of depression, anxiety and PTSD. Research has found a high patient satisfaction with telepsychiatry among patients, psychiatrists and other health care professionals. Telepsychiatry patients report an overall good experience among varying age groups, and there is evidence of successful treatment effectiveness, high quality of care and patient satisfaction.

Is my telepsychiatric visit covered by insurance?

Dr. Yen does not accept insurance at this time; however, she will provide a billing statement which may be submitted to your insurance for reimbursement. Many health plans in the state of Texas treat your telepsychiatric visit the same as an office visit and you may be eligible for benefits. Medicaid will also reimburse patients for some telepsychiatric services. It is important for patients to check with their insurance to determine applicable benefits which may cover your visit, according to your plan. Service rates for Dr. Yen can be found HERE.

How do I connect with Dr. Yen for my psychiatric telemedicine visit?

Dr. Yen will provide you a secure link for your appointment. She looks forward to meeting you.

If you would like more information regarding telepsychiatry, telemedicine or how to meet through a secure on-line platform, please contact the offices of Dr. Kathleen Yen, serving patients in Houston, Bellaire and the West University, Texas communities.