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Chapter L
Paediatric Telepsychiatry as
Innovation in Healthcare Delivery
Katherine M. Boydell
University of Toronto, Canada
Tiziana Volpe
The Hospital for Sick Children, Canada
Antonio Pignatiello
University of Toronto, Canada
Copyright © 2009, IGI Global, distributing in print or electronic forms without written permission of IGI Global is prohibited.
AbstrAct
Although a great deal has been written about the potential for telemedicine to increase access to care,
applications in paediatrics are sparse. This chapter details how one paediatric telepsychiatry program
has facilitated the creation of integrated healthcare solutions in patient psychiatric care for children
and youth in remote and rural communities. It demonstrates how the telepsychiatry model of healthcare
service delivery has improved access, enhanced capacity, and promoted knowledge exchange in rural
communities. A case study is used to highlight theoretical and empirical research on the value of televideo
information technology in mental healthcare and its impact on the healthcare stakeholders who utilize
this technology. An overview of the clinical, education, and evaluation components of the program is
outlined, with a focus on knowledge translation and exchange as the underpinning foundation to the
success of the program.
bAcKGrOUND
The recent proliferation of live interactive video-
conferencing technology has made it possible for
two or more individuals to interact in real time,
sharing information through electronic media.
Telepsychiatry is a specifc term designating
psychiatric applications employing live interactive
televideo (ITV) communication (The Work Group
on Quality Issues, 2008). In fact, telepsychiatry