The Telepsychiatry Service allows clients in rural areas to 'see' a Kingston-based psychiatrist without anyone having to travel long distances.

Using the most advanced videoconferencing systems, the service dramatically extends the reach of psychiatrists at Providence Care Mental Health Services, and Hotel Dieu Hospital, to people throughout Southeastern Ontario. These specialty clinicians care for people of all ages, from Child & Adolescent to acute and chronic Adult Psychiatry. Access to the service is through clinician referral.

Partners and places
The Telepsychiatry Network of Southeastern Ontario is a collaborative, regional program administered by Providence Care  Mental Health Services. Partners include Hotel Dieu Hospital, Queen's University, Kingston General Hospital, and Quinte Healthcare Corporation. There are now nine videoconferencing sites - in Belleville, Picton, Trenton, Bancroft, and Sharbot Lake.

Clinical care minus travel time
Telepsychiatry eliminates distance and travel time. Specialty care can be provided earlier, more often, and with greater efficiency. It means less isolation and more service for rural clients and clinicians alike.

Worldwide research and education
Telepsychiatry paves the way for a new approach to Distance Medical Education (DME) and world-wide collaborative research. Physicians can stay in hospital to care for their patients, while the opportunity to pursue education or research is as close as the conference room down the hall. ISDN videoconferencing systems can dial-up any country in the world. Connections have already been made to New Zealand, England, Israel and Australia. The network is also used for professional development and administrative meetings around the globe.

Technology - secure and easy to use!
Telepsychiatry videoconferencing uses a large screen with a sophisticated camera. 'Real time' sound and video images are transmitted digitally across the Bell Canada network. The equipment is fully supported by trained staff. All users have to do is talk, look, and listen. The system is secure, and can be seamlessly integrated into hospital computer networks.

Contact
For more information or to schedule a video conference please contact Eddy Lloyd, RN, Telepsychiatry Coordinator (613) 546-1101 Ext. 5707. Email lloyde@providencecare.ca