University students can now access online psychiatric care
University of Ontario Institute of Technology students who are referred to a psychiatrist by the Campus Health Centre (CHC) can now access faster, more convenient care, thanks to a new Personal Computer Video Conferencing (PCVC) service available through the CHC. Our university is one of the first in Ontario to adopt this technology to improve mental health support for students.
Previously, CHC health-care providers could only refer students to an off-campus psychiatric service provider, which required longer wait times and more travel. Now, using PCVC in a private CHC room, a student can connect directly with a psychiatrist in a hospital via webcam to receive a one-time consultation and recommendations for care. The connection is delivered through a partnership with the Ontario Telemedicine Network; it is completely secure and sessions are not recorded.
Before accessing psychiatric assessment through PCVC, students must make an appointment with a CHC doctor or visit the CHC walk-in clinic to receive a referral.
The university will initially have a dedicated connection to one doctor. The CHC will expand the service to include more psychiatrists and other health-care specialists if needed.
The university’s other mental health supports for students include:
- Appointments with mental-health counsellors in the Office of Student Life.
- Appointments with mental-health nurses at the CHC.
- Access to an outreach worker for students living in on-campus residences(Simcoe Village or South Village).
- Good2Talk Helpline (24/7): 1.866.925.5454.
You can find additional resources on the university’s Student Mental Health Services website.
For more information, contact Darlene Heslop, Director, Campus Health Centre, at ext. 3038.
