Medavie Blue Cross and Medaca Health Group are introducing a virtual cognitive behavioural therapy pilot project to provide plan members easier access to mental-health care.
Through a computer, smartphone or tablet, plan members diagnosed with anxiety or depression can log into the service’s digital platform to communicate with their therapist via video. The treatment will be integrated with Medaca’s psychiatric treatment service, which provides plan members with early access and effective treatment from psychiatrists working directly with family physicians.
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However, the service isn’t meant to replace traditional in-person therapy sessions, according to Marc Avaria, vice-president, life and disability management at Medavie Blue Cross, in a news release. “This is an alternative to face-to-face visits that allows plan members to readily access CBT resources in a timely and convenient way. In short, it’s mental health care on their terms.”