Dover-Foxcroft psychologist resumes in-person office visits

DOVER-FOXCROFT — Psychologist Dannel H. Starbird, Ph.D., has announced that he has reestablished in-person visits in his private office in Dover-Foxcroft.

Dr. Starbird recalls that in mid-2020 he and other healthcare providers were mandated by both state and federal officials to discontinue in-person visits. They were then authorized to begin telehealth services by either telephone or computer. Telehealth services had, prior to that time, been strictly limited, and not reimbursed by insurances. New regulations not only authorized but required insurance coverage of telehealth services. The doctor recalls difficulty as the transition in healthcare delivery left many patients without treatment. Extensive efforts were required to maintain continuity of care for patients and severely limited the capacity to begin with new patients. Telehealth services have now, however, become relatively routine for psychological services. 

Dr. Starbird says his reasons for re-establishing in-person visits are two-fold. First Medicare, whose regulations tend to dominate practices in the healthcare industry, is suggesting that all practitioners should see patients in-person at least once yearly. That has not been a standard requirement, but may be in the offing. Secondly, it is not the best practice to begin with new patients without an in-person visit. In-person visits with a patient allows the psychologist to obtain the best understanding and appreciation of their situation, concerns, diagnoses, and needed treatments. The option of an in-person treatment setting is essential to the best, most personalized patient care. 

Changes in Dr. Starbird’s practice will be gradual, and telehealth services will continue to be offered when suitable for patients. New patients begin with in-person visits. Dr. Starbird points out that telehealth services offer advantages to older patients, particularly during the winter months, and under challenging circumstances. Illness or lack of transportation to get to the office warrant consideration.

It is quite fortunate, he says, that despite the hardships of the COVID pandemic, telehealth services have become an option that has expanded health care opportunities in rural areas such as Piscataquis County. Both in-person and telehealth meetings offer advantages, and both contribute to a more functional and helpful healthcare system.