North Carolina launches $4M statewide telepsychiatry program

North Carolina officials announced the January 2014 launch of a statewide telepsychiatry plan to improve access to mental health professionals. North Carolina is investing $4 million over two years in the project, which is overseen by the state's Department of Health and Human Services Office of Rural Health and Community Care.

The program is the answer to mental health professional shortages in 58 counties in the state. The majority of North Carolina emergency departments lack a full-time psychiatrist, which makes care less efficient and effective, according to a state announcement on the program.

The telepsychiatry project will utilize real-time interactive audio and video technology at hospital emergency departments (ED) so mental health professionals can initiate treatment for ED patients in mental health or substance abuse crisis. The East Carolina University Center for Telepsychiatry will develop the network and establish the infrastructure and guidelines for administering the program. An advisory group will work with the Statewide Telepsychiatry Program to promote collaboration among partners.

"Technology will help us connect people with appropriate treatment programs so patients can avoid long waits in the emergency room. North Carolina can be a national leader with this program," said North Carolina Governor Pat McCrory in a statement.

Go here to view and download the Statewide Telepsychiatry Plan and here to download a factsheet on telepsychiatry and challenges facing North Carolina.