Stewart Memorial Community Hospital (SMCH) in Lake City launched a telepsychiatry program earlier this week. The 25-bed general medical and surgical hospital is located in a rural area with a shortage of mental healthcare professionals, and is developing this service as an option to allow patients to seek treatments closer to home. Telepsychiatry is the delivery of psychiatric services through real-time videoconferencing. It has been proven an effective form of treatment and a great way to expand support, especially during difficult staffing hours like nights and weekends. CEO, Cindy Carstens says “Stewart Memorial is always looking to incorporate innovative new programs that help our patients achieve a healthy mind and body. Our partnership with InSight will help better address the behavioral health needs in our community.” SMCH is served by 13 InSight telephsychiatry providers who are all licensed in Iowa.
