Tele-education in child mental health for rural allied health workers

Abstract

We developed a tele-education programme in child mental health for rural allied health workers. The programme was delivered in two parts, each consisting of six sessions. Videoconferencing at 384 kbit/s was used. Satisfactory retention rates were maintained throughout. Participants consistently reported increases in knowledge and skills as a result of attending the programme. The project resulted in a high rate of reported changes to practice. An unanticipated outcome was the value placed on the opportunities for local networking provided by the project for participants. Videoconferencing can deliver effective professional development to allied health workers in child mental health.