AI Insight
This study protocol outlines a qualitative investigation into how forensic inpatient patients and staff perceive online therapy delivery in hospital settings. Researchers will conduct semi-structured interviews lasting 30-60 minutes with both patients who have received online therapy and staff who have delivered it in forensic hospitals. The study aims to assess whether online therapy is an acceptable alternative to traditional face-to-face methods in this complex clinical population.
Why it matters
Understanding acceptance of online therapy in forensic populations could expand treatment access for patients with restricted mobility or those in long-term segregation who cannot easily access traditional therapy. This research may inform policy decisions about remote mental health service delivery in secure institutional settings.
Understand the Science
IntroductionOnline therapy has been used and evaluated in community settings, however there is limited literature available to understand its role in forensic inpatient populations. Without understanding the perspectives of the patients and staff, it is unclear whether online therapy is an acceptable form of delivery, and how it compares to traditional face to face methods. This study will look to understand the perceptions and experience of online therapy in a forensic population.MethodsThis study will primarily utilize a qualitative approach. A 30–60 min semi structured interview will be conducted with patients who have engaged with therapy whilst a patient at a forensic hospital. A 30–60 min interview or focus group will be conducted with staff who have delivered or facilitated the delivery of online therapy to patients at a forensic hospital.DiscussionOnline therapy has been evaluated in community populations however this study would provide insight into whether it is acceptable in a more complex population. If it were to be, it has potential ramifications for others who are unable to access standard therapy, for example, patients in long term segregation.Trial registrationhttps://osf.io/g3ap6/overview, identifier Osf.io: G3AP6.