The benefits of telehealth psychology services for veterans

In the last 12 months, 23.6 per cent of Australians have had at least one telehealth consultation for their own health.

Have you accessed a telehealth appointment before? If not, the good news is that you don’t need any fancy equipment for an appointment.

You can simply use any mobile device (eg iPad, phone, laptop) or desktop with a web browser such as Google Chrome or Safari. You will need WIFI or internet connectivity and both audio and visual capabilities on your device, plus headphones if you require some privacy.

Telehealth is a convenient way of accessing health services online via video, enabling you to receive services in the comfort of your own home. This is particularly important if you are confined to your home, unwell or unable to travel.

Accessing veteran healthcare via telehealth

Following their transition from the Australian Defence Force, veterans and Defence families may opt to live in rural or remote locations away from base and the capital cities.

However, the high prevalence of mental health impacts on veterans may mean that despite the peace and quiet, clinical support through mental health professionals like psychologists is still vital.

These mental health impacts may also cause veterans to isolate, making travelling to a clinic or health centre difficult, regardless of location.

According to the Australian Psychological Society, since 2020, 88 per cent of Australian psychologists have seen an increase in demand for services, with one in three psychologists unable to see new clients. 

Local veterans’ charity Mates4Mates actively works to support veterans and families, and their team of psychologists understand the need to provide accessible services to those who have transitioned from the Defence.

Mates4Mates Clinical Lead of Psychological Services, Jonathan Moscrop said that with clients often waiting three months to see a psychologist, Mates4Mates telehealth services provide an important opportunity to alleviate the demand and lessen wait times for those facing mental health concerns that can’t access a Mates4Mates centre.

“Mates4Mates currently has no wait time for veterans and families seeking appointments with psychologists via telehealth,” Mr Moscrop said. 

“Many of our staff are from all areas of the Defence community and are experienced in helping veterans with common mental health concerns associated with military service including anxiety, PTSD, and depression.”

Mr Moscrop explains that while some people may be hesitant to utilise telehealth appointments, he assures that Mates4Mates psychologists use videoconferencing tools specifically designed to help people in psychology appointments and reach the desired outcome.

“Research indicates that telehealth psychology appointments are equally as beneficial to client outcomes, as the traditional face-to-face method. I encourage those who are hesitant to give it a go.”

Busting telehealth myths

If you haven’t accessed telehealth before, it can be confusing on how they compare to an in-person appointment. Here are some common misconceptions about telehealth services that the Mates4Mates team have myth busted.

Myth 1: A telehealth appointment cannot offer the same quality of care as face-to-face appointments. 

Busted: Studies have found that the clinical outcomes from telehealth appointments are equal to traditional face-to-face therapies.

Myth 2: I can only choose telehealth appointments if I live rurally.

Busted: Telehealth appointments are available to anyone, not just those who live in rural areas.

Myth 3: It’s too difficult to operate a telehealth platform.

Busted: Most telehealth platforms offer FAQs to help people get started, or your treating clinician can guide you through it over the phone. 

While videoconference is preferred, phone calls are also available for telehealth sessions.

Myth 4: Telehealth is only a temporary service.

Busted: During the COVID-19 pandemic, most healthcare providers switched to telehealth appointments. However, following a return to 'normal' life, it is here to stay. It is a safe, secure and effective way to reduce barriers to healthcare treatment for everyone.

Myth 5: There’s no privacy or confidentiality with telehealth.

Busted: The same privacy and confidentiality requirements apply for face-to-face and online consultations. The psychologist will take notes, but your consultation will not be recorded.

Accessing telehealth services at Mates4Mates

If you’re a veteran or family member who has been impacted by service, and you’re not sure if telehealth is right for you, speak with your GP or contact Mates4Mates to discuss.

For more information about how to access support at Mates4Mates, visit the website: www.mates4mates.org. To make an appointment over the phone, you can call the team anytime from Monday to Friday, between 8:30am and 4:30pm, on 1300 4 MATES (62 837).

A GP referral is required to book an appointment with a Mates4Mates psychologist and DVA Health Cards are accepted upon a GP referral, as well as mental health care plans for family members.