E-Mental Health Improves Access to Care, Facilitates Early Intervention, and Provides Evidence-Based Treatments at a Distance

Abstract

Our current healthcare system in the United States is characterized by problems with access to timely and evidence-based care, particularly for mental disorders. e-Mental Health (eMH) improves access to care regardless of the point-of-service or barriers involved. Its effectiveness across age, population, and disorders is as good as in-person care, though adjustments for some populations in the approach are necessary. Early intervention is an example of “Cadillac” care or a best evidence-based approach that is easier to distribute via telemedicine. Cadillac care delivered via eMH has the potential to bring evidence-based early-intervention modalities to very young children and their families. However, early access to care is also critical for all populations, particularly those with cultural or medical disadvantages. It appears that eMH may be preferable or better than in-person care in some instances.