Muscat – A recent study conducted by researchers from Sultan Qaboos University and the University Medical City, has highlighted how the COVID-19 pandemic helped accelerate the development of more accessible and cost-effective alternatives for mental healthcare delivered remotely.
While the pandemic had far-reaching negative consequences for health systems worldwide, the study shows that the restrictions and lockdowns imposed at the time created an opportunity for psychiatry and behavioural medicine services to expand beyond traditional face-to-face models. These changes enabled patients to access psychological support more easily and at a lower cost, while also reducing pressure on healthcare facilities.
Led by Dr Tamadhir bint Said al Mahrouqi, the research team observed a noticeable increase in demand for remote behavioural medicine consultations offered through hospital services. This prompted a qualitative study examining the experiences of both patients and mental health professionals, as well as the broader implications of providing psychological care at a distance.
The findings indicate a high level of acceptance among patients, who reported benefits such as ease of use, improved access to specialised care, reduced absence from work, and lower travel costs. The study also noted a positive impact on reducing the stigma often associated with seeking mental health support. For practitioners, remote care contributed to lower infection risks, reduced operational costs, and a better work–life balance.
At the same time, the researchers identified several challenges that could affect the wider adoption of remote mental healthcare in the sultanate. These include the limited availability of public services, the absence of clear regulatory frameworks governing tele-mental health, a shortage of trained specialists, gaps in digital infrastructure, and concerns related to patient privacy and data security.
The study was based on 19 semi-structured interviews with adult patients and mental health professionals, all of whom expressed generally positive views of remote psychological services. Participants also emphasised the need for greater public awareness, particularly through the media, to address social stigma and improve understanding of mental health and telepsychiatry.
Dr Tamadhir recommended the development of national policies and regulatory systems for government-run remote mental healthcare services, alongside the introduction of master’s programmes in clinical psychology. Such initiatives, she noted, would help address current challenges and strengthen mental healthcare provision across the country.
The study is among the first in the region to use a qualitative approach to explore patient and practitioner experiences of video-based mental healthcare during the COVID-19 pandemic, offering valuable insights for future policy and practice in Oman and beyond.
