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Remote Psychological Therapy — MRCPsych Paper B MCQ

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EasyMood DisordersRemote Psychological TherapyMRCPsych Paper B

A 70-year-old woman with depression has been assessed as suitable for psychological therapy. Longstanding mobility impairment prevents her from attending a clinic, but she is able and willing to engage by telephone or video. According to NICE NG222, what is the most appropriate approach to delivering her treatment?

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Correct answer: C — Offer a suitable NICE-recommended psychological intervention by telephone or video

The correct answer is C. NICE NG222 recommends discussing how treatment will be delivered, including in person or remotely, and addressing barriers arising from disability. Telephone or video delivery can therefore provide access to an otherwise suitable psychological intervention, provided it is acceptable and accessible to the patient. Clinic attendance must not be imposed as a prerequisite, so A and E would create an unnecessary barrier or delay. Group treatment in a care home may sometimes be available, but it is not the only permissible alternative, making C incorrect. Unguided bibliotherapy is not an equivalent default replacement for therapist-delivered treatment; NICE guided self-help includes structured practitioner support, so D is also incorrect.

Reference: National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. Depression in adults: treatment and management (NG222), recommendations 1.3.1, 1.4.1 and 1.16.4–1.16.5. 2022; reviewed 2026. https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/ng222/chapter/Recommendations