The presenter has also developed a Forensic Telepsychiatry Steering Group, with a research sub-committee, based in Nottingham. They are coordinating several research projects, exploring the use of teleconferencing facilities within forensic psychiatry. The session will discuss how the above is relevant to Forensic Psychiatrists and also address its importance to the training of forensic psychiatrists.
Tele-psychiatry has been used by other services in UK in Forensic settings albeit in a narrow remit not involving actual gate keeping assessments, preparation of Court Reports etc. The session will discuss how it is crucial for services across the UK and beyond to share experiences and promote innovative practices. It will aim to explore ways to succeed with regard to delivering timely, easily accessible and clinically sound psychiatric services, with the additional spotlight on cost-efficiency, saving valuable professional time and ‘going green’ with respect to health service delivery.