Patient engagement can improve patient outcomes by creating a treatment experience that is more personalized and collaborative. HIPAA compliant email is an accessible method of engaging patient participation in a way that can be tailored to their needs.
The importance of patient engagement in psychiatric care
Traditional models of psychiatry often place healthcare providers in a paternalistic role where patients receive directives without having input. It can alienate individuals seeking treatment, reducing the autonomy patients should feel in their care.
A study published in the Issues in Mental Health Nursing states, “This progressive shift toward patient participation has not only revolutionized the conventional provider-patient dynamic but has also become particularly significant in the field of mental health care.”
When patients are actively involved in treatment decisions, they are more likely to engage meaningfully in the therapeutic process. The involvement of patients creates a dynamic alliance between patient and provider that serves to strengthen patient outcomes.
The support of this participation also allows for improved personalization of care to the unique needs of each patient. Consideration of the deeply personal and complex nature of mental health challenges can assist in creating treatment interventions targeted at underlying symptoms not just managing symptoms.
Related: Balancing patient engagement with HIPAA privacy mandates
Ways to encourage patient collaboration in treatment through email
Collaborate on goal setting
Patients benefit from a complete understanding of their psychiatric journey, and therefore, goal setting can be a beneficial addition to treatment. Sending templates for setting SMART goals by email can encourage patients to think critically about treatment between sessions. These can then be used during in person sessions to monitor progress.
Encourage self reflection
Journal prompts guide patients to explore their thoughts and feelings in ways that might not be discussed or thought of during sessions. Sending regular prompts through email can provide a medium for reflection and mood tracking.
Facilitate family involvement
Mental health practitioners can use email to arrange family involvement in a way that is efficient as well as noninvasive. Patients who consent to the involvement of family and supportive individuals can benefit from a collaborative approach to care where mental health practitioners and the community assist in treatment.
Motivational support
Motivation can be a necessary part of reducing the loneliness that often comes with mental health challenges. The recognition and celebration of milestones can boost patient spirits. These messages could range from congratulating them on attending therapy sessions regularly to the regular completion of tasks like journal prompts.
FAQs
What is consent?
Consent is an individual's agreement to disclosure of their medical information or treatment.
When can the patient's information be shared with the family?
When a patient provides explicit consent, it is necessary to prevent harm, or if the information is required for the family member's involvement in care.
What does the term mental health practitioner refer to?
It refers to professionals like psychologists, psychiatrists, and counselors who diagnose and treat mental health disorders.
Kirsten Peremore
