Telehealth Psychiatric Assessments for Veterans | DVA Guide
Telehealth has transformed how Australian veterans can access psychiatric services. Whether you live in a remote area, have mobility limitations, or simply prefer the convenience of home, telehealth psychiatric assessments offer a fully DVA-compliant option for your compensation claim.
This article explains how telehealth psychiatric assessments work, their effectiveness compared to in-person consultations, and what you need to know to participate.
Key Point: DVA permanently adopted telehealth arrangements, recognising that telehealth services benefit veterans who face barriers to in-person healthcare, including those in rural and remote locations.
What is a Telehealth Psychiatric Assessment?
A telehealth psychiatric assessment is a comprehensive evaluation conducted via secure video conferencing rather than in-person. You connect with an experienced psychiatrist through your computer, tablet, or smartphone from your home or any private location.
The assessment covers the same components as an in-person evaluation:
- Detailed clinical interview about your history and symptoms
- Mental state examination
- Psychometric testing
- Review of relevant documentation
- DVA-compliant report preparation
Is Telehealth as Effective as In-Person Assessment?
Research consistently shows that telehealth psychiatric assessments are as effective as in-person appointments for most purposes. Studies have found comparable outcomes across various medical fields, including mental health.
For DVA psychiatric assessments specifically, telehealth can provide all the clinical information needed for a comprehensive, compliant report. The psychiatrist can observe your presentation, ask detailed questions, and conduct a thorough evaluation — just as they would in person.
DVA recognises telehealth assessments as fully equivalent to in-person evaluations for claim purposes.
Benefits of Telehealth Assessment
Access from Anywhere
Veterans across Australia — including those in rural and remote areas — can access the same quality psychiatric assessment as those in major cities. This is particularly important given that geographic barriers have historically limited veteran access to specialist mental health services.
No Travel Required
Eliminate travel time, costs, and the stress of getting to appointments. This is especially valuable for veterans with mobility issues, those managing chronic pain, or those who find travel difficult due to anxiety or PTSD symptoms.
Comfort of Your Own Environment
Many veterans find it easier to discuss sensitive experiences from the comfort and privacy of their own home. Being in a familiar environment can reduce anxiety and help you engage more openly in the assessment.
Reduced Wait Times
Telehealth services often have shorter wait times than in-person appointments, helping you get your assessment and report completed faster.
Flexibility
Telehealth appointments can offer more flexible scheduling, making it easier to fit your assessment around work, family, or other commitments.
What You Need for a Telehealth Assessment
To participate in a telehealth psychiatric assessment, you’ll need:
- A device with camera and microphone: A smartphone, tablet, laptop, or desktop computer with a webcam
- Reliable internet connection: Stable enough for video calling
- A private space: Somewhere you can speak freely without interruption for 2-3 hours
- Basic technical comfort: Ability to join a video call (staff can guide you through this)
What to Expect During Your Telehealth Assessment
- Before the appointment: You’ll receive a secure video link and instructions for joining
- At the start: The psychiatrist will confirm your identity and ensure your connection is working well
- During the assessment: The same comprehensive clinical interview as an in-person appointment (typically 2-3 hours)
- Psychometric testing: May be completed online before, during, or after the video consultation
- After the assessment: Your report is prepared and submitted to DVA (typically within 2 weeks)
Tips for a Successful Telehealth Assessment
- Test your technology beforehand — make sure your camera, microphone, and internet are working
- Choose a quiet, private location where you won’t be interrupted
- Have good lighting so the psychiatrist can see you clearly
- Keep your device charged or plugged in
- Have a glass of water nearby — it’s a long consultation
- You can have a support person present if that helps you feel more comfortable
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I access telehealth from overseas?
Yes. Telehealth psychiatric assessments can be conducted for veterans anywhere in the world, as long as you have a reliable internet connection.
Is the telehealth report the same as an in-person report?
Yes. The report meets the same DVA requirements and contains all the same elements as a report from an in-person assessment.
What if I have technical problems during the assessment?
Staff will help troubleshoot any issues. If the connection fails, the appointment can be rescheduled or continued by phone if appropriate.
Do I still need psychometric testing with telehealth?
Yes. Psychometric testing is mandatory for DVA assessments and can be completed online as part of the telehealth process.
Book with March Ahead
March Ahead offers comprehensive DVA psychiatric assessments via telehealth Australia-wide. With no waitlist and reports typically completed within two weeks, we make accessing your assessment convenient wherever you are.
Related Resources
- Related: What is a DVA Psychiatric Assessment?
- Related: Choosing an Independent Psychiatric Assessor
- Service page: Telehealth Assessments