A randomized trial of telepsychiatry for post-traumatic stress disorder

TLDR

The study randomized 38 combat‑related PTSD patients to 14 weekly 90‑minute CBT sessions delivered either via telepsychiatry or in‑person, and assessed clinical and process outcomes in 25 participants who completed at least one post‑baseline evaluation. At three‑month follow‑up, clinical outcomes, satisfaction, attendance, and drop‑out rates did not differ between telepsychiatry and in‑person groups, although in‑person participants reported greater comfort and adherence, supporting telepsychiatry as a viable option to enhance access to PTSD care.

Abstract

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.