CAMHS survey on video appointments - reminder

Orkney Health and Care’s mental health service for children and young people is reminding young people and their families to respond to the survey on the use of video consultations.

The survey by CAMHS (Children’s and Adolescent Mental Health Service) asks people about their experiences using ‘telepsychiatry’ (video sessions with a clinician, usually using ‘NearMe’) – such as whether they felt comfortable during the session, if they had trouble logging on or technical issues during the session, and if they felt they could express themselves and be understood. Folk are also invited to comment on whether they found video consultations helped save them time or money, if they were able to get a video consultation sooner than an in-person session, and if they would want to use telepsychiatry again.

The survey is open to any young person or their family member who has attended a video consultation with CAMHS. All responses will be treated as confidential.

Dr Chetana Patil, Consultant Child Psychiatrist for NHS Orkney, said: “We know video consultations can offer some very practical benefits, such as reduced travel time and costs, and for some people being able to speak to a clinician about their mental health from the familiar surroundings of home may be a comfort. However we are very keen to ensure we have a fuller picture of people’s experience here in Orkney and learn from that, so we can make the best of this option for our young people in a way which safeguards their clinical and personal needs.”

The survey, which closes on Friday 30 September, is available online.