Telemental health screening and psychiatric diagnosis for COVID-19 recovered patients in post-COVID-19 outpatient care

Abstract

Abstract Background: The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has led to a notable rise in telemental health (TMH) and telepsychiatry services. However, there is limited available literature addressing psychiatric disorders and mental health issues among individuals who have recovered from COVID-19. Aims and Objectives: To evaluate the characteristics of TMH screening, psychiatric diagnosis, and the care offered to individuals who have recovered from COVID-19. Materials and Methods: This retrospective record-based study focused on patients who had recuperated from COVID-19 and were discharged. Following their discharge, telephonic contact was established with these recovered individuals, subjecting them to a mental health screening using a 7-item post-COVID-19 TMH screening. Subsequently, they received telecounseling and were advised to attend follow-up sessions at the multidisciplinary post-COVID-19 outpatient department (OPD). Data from the post-COVID-19 TMH register and post-COVID-19 OPD register for June–August 2021 were scrutinized based on available records. Any incomplete data were excluded, and clearance from the Institutional Ethics Committee was obtained. The analysis of the data involved descriptive techniques. Results: Out of the 302 patients contacted via telephone, 38.80% exhibited a positive response on the TMH screening, with anxiety being the most prevalent symptom. Among them, 22 individuals (42.30%) sought care at the post-COVID-19 OPD, comprising 12 males (54.55%) and 10 females (45.45%), with 14 (63.64%) residing in rural areas and 8 (36.36%) in urban areas. The predominant diagnoses were anxiety disorders, and the frequently prescribed medications included escitalopram and clonazepam. Conclusion: The predominant TMH symptom observed was anxiety, with anxiety disorders being the most frequently encountered conditions in the post-COVID-19 OPD.