A qualitative study to assess satisfaction with the Manipal model of telepsychiatry among patients and caregivers

Context: Telepsychiatry in India is nearly two decades old and is witnessing rapid adaptation in clinical services. This warrants studying the satisfaction with this mode from healthcare seekers' point of view. Aim: This study aimed to study the treatment satisfaction among persons with psychiatric disorders and their caregivers receiving telepsychiatry services via the Manipal model. Settings and Design: This was a qualitative cross-sectional study conducted in three centers, which were part of the Manipal model of telepsychiatry, namely community healthcare centers at Hebri, community healthcare centers at Byndoor, and primary healthcare center (PHC) at Kandlur of Udupi District. Methods and Material: Semi-structured interview schedule and focused group discussions were conducted to assess the treatment satisfaction. Statistical Analysis Used: Descriptive statistics were used to analyze sociodemographic data, and data generated from focused group discussions were qualitatively analyzed. Collected data were coded, and themes were generated from the codes. Results: A total of 45 persons with psychiatric disorders and 28 of the caregivers receiving telepsychiatry services were recruited into this study. Results revealed high satisfaction among patients and caregivers with telepsychiatry services provided to them. Qualitative results of this study revealed high satisfaction among patients and caregivers with telepsychiatry services in different domains such as time, cost of treatment, convenience, doctor-patient communication, and healthcare quality. Conclusion: This study witnessed that patients and caregivers were highly satisfied with telepsychiatry services provided to them. These findings clearly indicate the importance of telepsychiatry services in the country, where the concept of telepsychiatry and its practice is rising.