Background Video consultation is increasingly used in different health care settings to reach patients. However, little is known about telehealth in psychological counselling for vulnerable patients with somatic and chronic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes. Objective This study aimed to develop and pilot test a telepsychology module for inclusion in the app My Hospital (Mit Sygehus) to provide remote psychological counselling to vulnerable adults with either rheumatic diseases or diabetes. Methods With inspiration from participatory design, the content of the telepsychology module was developed through user involvement and evaluated by individual interviews with patients and psychologists as well as questionnaires. Results We developed a module with our patient partners that targeted patients with rheumatic diseases and diabetes in relation to the psychological challenges of living with chronic diseases. The module included information, tools, exercises, and videoconferencing. In total, 16 patients and 3 psychologists participated in the pilot test. Psychological counselling was described by 4 themes: “The good relation despite physical distance,” “The comfort of being at home,” “The pros of saving time on transport and energy,” and “A therapeutic alliance at a distance.” Conclusions Psychological counselling in relation to somatic care can be provided by videoconferencing supported by web-based or mobile delivery of tailored information, tools, and exercises without compromising on the quality of care. To ensure a good alliance between the patient and psychologist, a first face-to-face meeting is important. The home location provided patients with a safe environment and increased accessibility and reduced travel time to the hospital.
BACKGROUND Video consultation is increasingly used in different healthcare settings in order to reach patients. However, little is known about telehealth in psychological treatment for patients with somatic and chronic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes. OBJECTIVE This study aims to provide new insight into the development of an app to support the psychological treatment and video based intervention. METHODS This study was inspired by participatory design and a qualitative approach. The content of the intervention was developed through user involvement and evaluated by individual interviews with patients and psychologists as well as questionnaires. RESULTS We co-created an app that targeted patients with rheumatic diseases and diabetes in relation to the psychological challenges of living with chronic diseases. Video based interventions was described under the four themes “The good relation despite physical distance”, “The comfort of being at home”, “The pros of saving time on transport and energy” and “A therapeutic alliance at a distance”. CONCLUSIONS Psychological treatment in relation to somatic care can be provided by video and supported by tailored information and tools delivered in an app without losing quality of care. To ensure a good alliance between the patient and the psychologist, a first face-to-face meeting is important. Being in their own home provided the patients with a safe environment, increased accessibility, and reduced travel time to the hospital.
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