A randomized trial of telepsychiatry for post-traumatic stress disorder.
We compared the efficacy of telepsychiatry and same-room treatment of combat-related post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) using cognitive behavioural therapy in 14 weekly, 90-min treatment sessions. Of 97 patients referred for study participation, 38 were randomized (17 into telepsychiatry, 21 into same-room), and approximately 25 (the number differed by instrument) had at least one post-baseline assessment. Measures of clinical and process outcomes were examined. No group differences were found on clinical outcomes at three-month follow-up. Satisfaction with treatment ratings was similar in both groups, with 'strong satisfaction' indicated by veterans in both modalities. Attendance and drop-out were similar in the two groups. The same-room group reported more comfort in talking with their therapist at post-treatment and had better treatment adherence. The results provide preliminary support for the use of telepsychiatry in the treatment of PTSD to improve access to care.
Frueh
B Christopher
BC
Veterans Affairs Medical Center, and Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, South Carolina, USA. frueh@hawaii.edu
Monnier
Jeannine
J
Yim
Eunsil
E
Grubaugh
Anouk L
AL
Hamner
Mark B
MB
Knapp
Rebecca G
RG
D015928:Cognitive Behavioral Therapy / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards; D006801:Humans; D008016:Life Change Events; D008297:Male; D013313:Stress Disorders, Post-Traumatic / Q000523:psychology / Q000628:therapy*; D017216:Telemedicine / Q000379:methods* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D014728:Veterans / Q000523:psychology