Advances in Asynchronous Telehealth Technologies to Improve Access and Quality of Mental Health Care for Children and Adolescents

Abstract

Although mental health (MH) disorders are common among children and adolescents, most youth in need of services do not receive care. Among those who do access the mental health care system, quality of care remains poor. Telehealth technologies have the potential to improve access and quality of MH care for this population. In this article, we provide an overview of several promising asynchronous telemental health (A-TMH) technologies that target one or more dimensions of access to MH care, the quality of MH care, or both: (1) patient registries and tracking systems, (2) store and forward telehealth, (3) mobile health (mHealth) interventions, and (4) internet self-administered therapies. Next, we draw on two conceptual frameworks to identify key dimensions of health care access and quality that may be targeted by these A-TMH technologies. There are, however, a number of major challenges to the broader dissemination of these tools including a dearth of available research on their efficacy and effectiveness; the monetary cost associated with developing, acquiring, implementing, and maintaining these technologies; and the time cost associated with training on and implementation of these technologies. As researchers, practitioners, and policymakers may pursue strategies to overcome these challenges, A-TMH technologies have the potential to help create a more accessible, equitable, evidence-based, and patient-centered mental health care system for youth.