Implementation and evaluation of a pharmacist-run mental health treatment clinic via clinical video telehealth

INTRODUCTION: The Veterans Health Administration is extending its mental health services to reach those in rural areas who find it difficult to travel to a Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC). This project aimed to outline implementation of a Pharmacy Mental Health Clinical Video Telehealth (MHCVT) clinic for veterans. Secondary endpoints were to assess patient satisfaction with MHCVT, describe the potential benefits of this clinic regarding travel saved, and summarize no-show rates. METHODS: Veterans received mental health disease state medication management from a mental health clinical pharmacy specialist via clinical video telehealth (CVT) in place of an in-clinic appointment and were asked to complete a satisfaction survey after the initial CVT appointment. Data collected from all veterans enrolled in the CVT clinic from September 8, 2014, through March 23, 2015 included: patient demographics, service connection percentage, number of CVT visits, travel miles saved, travel reimbursement, no-show rate, and documentation of medication management therapy. RESULTS: As of March 23, 2015, there were 22 veterans enrolled in the MHCVT clinic, of whom, 19 completed their appointments. Of the 48 potential encounters, 7 were considered a no-show (17%). On average veterans saved 34 travel miles per visit with cumulative savings of 1432.6 miles. Of those who were eligible to receive travel reimbursement (n = 13), the medical center potentially saved $674.50 in a 7-month period. Overall clinic satisfaction per survey (n = 14) was 100% (strongly agreed or agreed). A majority (93%) would recommend the clinic to other veterans. CONCLUSIONS: This project successfully implemented a MHCVT pilot clinic. The veterans were satisfied with the services. The 41 clinic visits resulted in a potential cost savings. Expansion of this clinic in the future will expand more mental health resources to veterans.