A study conducted by a team of psychiatrists at Columbia University reveals that while teletherapy has become increasingly popular, particularly during and after the pandemic, it has not improved access to mental health care for individuals who cannot afford to pay for it.
The research, published in the American Journal of Psychiatry, used data from previous studies to show that, despite the rise in teletherapy usage, low-income individuals have not benefited from these services at higher rates than before. Teletherapy, which became more widespread with the increased use of platforms like Zoom during the pandemic, allows both therapists and patients to avoid the need for in-person visits, making mental health care more accessible in some ways. However, the study suggests that it has not bridged the financial gap in mental health care access.
Before the pandemic, around 3% to 4% of Americans were receiving psychotherapy. This number jumped to about 8.5% during the pandemic, partly due to the convenience of online sessions, and has remained elevated. However, the new study reveals that this increase in teletherapy usage has not been mirrored by an increase in access for low-income populations. Instead, patients who have adopted teletherapy are typically young, well-educated, and from higher income brackets.
Data from an additional study focusing on children and adolescents also showed that the majority of those utilizing telehealth services came from high-income families with strong health insurance coverage.
The researchers attribute this disparity to the financial structure surrounding teletherapy. Therapists generally charge the same fees for online sessions as they would for in-person visits, and both clients and their insurance companies are expected to cover these costs. This creates a barrier for low-income individuals who may not have the financial means to afford these services, despite their convenience and availability.
In conclusion, while teletherapy has certainly made it easier for many to access mental health care, it has not addressed the underlying issue of affordability, leaving a significant portion of the population without adequate support.
Related topics:
