As the coronavirus continues to impact our nation, it’s also impacting the way mental healthcare providers are treating patients. Rather than in-person sessions and treatment programs, mental healthcare professionals are adopting virtual technology as a way to continue much-needed treatment that protects both providers and patients from the potential transmission of COVID-19. Enter the era of Online Telehealth treatment!
At Center for Discovery, we have transitioned our in-person outpatient eating disorder treatment programs to Online Telehealth Treatment for partial hospitalization and intensive outpatient levels of care. This means that we are now using a virtual telecommunications platform—called Zoom—for two-way, interactive therapeutic visits with patients and groups. In other words, your provider will meet with you via video teleconference or phone rather than sitting with you in person.
With Online Telehealth for eating disorders, you will have a dedicated treatment team, just like you would in person, only now you interact via virtual videoconferences and calls.
Group sessions can also be held through Zoom videoconferencing. For groups, you’ll all be able to see each other and talk, just like you would if you were in the same room.
The safety of our patients and our staff is always our top priority. Online Telehealth keeps everyone safe while still continuing the important work of treatment and recovery for eating disorders.
And just as importantly, we recognize that these are distressful times for anyone struggling with anorexia, binge eating disorder, bulimia, or . Those struggling with an eating disorder need the structure of a treatment program now more than ever. Our Online Telehealth treatment program allows us to continue much-needed treatment while ensuring everyone’s physical wellbeing.
It is! The Zoom technology we use meets HIPAA compliance guidelines. It’s why we’ve chosen this platform at Center for Discovery.
After reviewing a number of studies, the National Center for Biotechnology (NCBI) concluded, “Telemental health care can provide effective and adaptable solutions to the care of mental illnesses universally.”
Our Online Telehealth treatment program for eating disorders includes one-on-one sessions with your therapist and dietician, group sessions, and family programming. Since patients will be at home, they will prepare their own meals and will have opportunities to participate in supported meals or snacks via teleconference.
The Zoom platform we selected is very easy to use! All that’s needed is a device with a camera, internet connection, and a quiet, private place. Many of our patients also like to use headphones for added privacy and to better focus.
You will receive a link to download the free software onto your device. Then, for each session, you will receive a link for that session, which you simply click and then you’ll be taken into your virtual video or phone session. Zoom works on both PC and Apple devices.
You’ve probably heard all of these terms at different times and may wonder if there are differences between them. These can be different ways to describe telehealth treatment, which is the term insurance companies use for reimbursements of online or virtual delivery of treatment.
We also offer free Online Support Groups for those impacted by eating disorders—both individuals and families. These clinician-led groups are not therapeutic sessions, but rather a virtual space where participants can connect and support their peers.
Most commercial insurance providers and Tricare cover telehealth treatment. When you call us, we’ll do a complementary check of your benefits to confirm that you’re covered! (Unfortunately, at this time we’re not able to accept Medicare or Medicaid.)
Eating disorders are illnesses that love isolation so please contact us today at 866-482-3876 – we will help you explore your treatment options. You don’t have to do this alone. We’re here for you.
