Understanding the Acceptability and Effect of Psychiatric Care via Telemedicine as an Alternative Option for Patients Living with Intellectual Disabilities in Group Homes

Abstract

Telemedicine has become a popular alternative to in-person clinic visits in the field of psychiatry, but few studies examine the impact of telemedicine mental healthcare provided to patients with intellectual disabilities living in group homes. Our study aims to fill this gap in the literature. A ten-question survey was designed to evaluate the effect of telemedicine services on access to care, quality of care, and patient and caregiver stress. This survey was distributed to caregivers of patients living in group homes who received care at the University of Alabama Medical Center. The majority of respondents indicated that telemedicine visits improved access to care, did not result in lower quality care compared to in-person visits, and adequately addressed the needs of the patient. Our findings suggest that telemedicine is an acceptable method of delivery of healthcare for a significant proportion of caregivers of patients surveyed.