Implementing Telemental Health to Improve Access to Mental Health Care in Rural Vermont

Mental health care shortages in the United States are most pronounced in rural areas. This practice-change project aimed to increase access to quality mental health care in rural areas for the treatment of depression and anxiety via telemental health delivery of care. The project yielded improvements across project aims, including an increased percent of enrolled patients from Healthcare Provider Shortage Areas; a decrease in quality measures for depression, anxiety, and disability; and increased patient satisfaction with care. The project can serve as a template for other practices wishing to increase access to mental health care in rural areas.