From Couch to Click: Opportunities and Challenges of Hybrid Work Models in Mental Health Care

Hybrid work is common in mental health care following the COVID-19 pandemic. Although widespread, little is known about how to optimize it. We review relevant literature for patients, employees and mental health systems, and offer guidance on navigating tradeoffs in the application of hybrid work.

Patients often prefer telehealth visits due to convenience, but in-person visits are sometimes clinically indicated or preferred. The mental health workforce appreciates reduced commutes and flexibility, though may risk increased isolation and work fatigue. Mental health systems may realize cost savings, although these may create challenges for accommodating patient in-person needs or employee preferences. Hybrid work in mental health care presents a promising path forward but requires thoughtful tradeoff management. It is unlikely that all benefits of hybrid work can be realized at once. Settings may benefit from identifying top priorities and designing hybrid work arrangements accordingly.