BACKGROUND
Video consultation is increasingly used in different healthcare settings in order to reach patients. However, little is known about telehealth in psychological treatment for patients with somatic and chronic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes.
OBJECTIVE
This study aims to provide new insight into the development of an app to support the psychological treatment and video based intervention.
METHODS
This study was inspired by participatory design and a qualitative approach. The content of the intervention was developed through user involvement and evaluated by individual interviews with patients and psychologists as well as questionnaires.
RESULTS
We co-created an app that targeted patients with rheumatic diseases and diabetes in relation to the psychological challenges of living with chronic diseases. Video based interventions was described under the four themes “The good relation despite physical distance”, “The comfort of being at home”, “The pros of saving time on transport and energy” and “A therapeutic alliance at a distance”.
CONCLUSIONS
Psychological treatment in relation to somatic care can be provided by video and supported by tailored information and tools delivered in an app without losing quality of care. To ensure a good alliance between the patient and the psychologist, a first face-to-face meeting is important. Being in their own home provided the patients with a safe environment, increased accessibility, and reduced travel time to the hospital.
The use of telehealth in psychological counselling of adult vulnerable patients with rheumatic diseases and diabetes: An explorative study inspired by participatory design (Preprint)