Patient use of ICT in Mental Health
17th November 2008
Anita Ghosh, IM&T Project Manager
and
Andy Gibson, Art Psychotherapist
Agenda
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Project Background
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The service user experience
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Art software for service users – a pilot
Trust Overview
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Mental Health services to 5 London Boroughs
National and regional services are provided for:
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Adults
Older People
Children and Adolescents
Some specialist services include:
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Learning Disabilities
Eating Disorders
Deaf services
Secure inpatient units
Project Background
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Limited Internet access introduced in 2001
Parental controls offered as part of the ISP package
Over time, growing demand for computing facilities,
in particular Internet access in inpatient areas
…but, all-inclusive package with parental controls
withdrawn by ISP
Project set up to find and implement a new solution
Stage 1 - A Feasibility study to set out…
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The technical solution
Some anticipated benefits
Risk management plan
Expected costs!
Feasibility study approved – proceed with
pilot
Stage 2 - The Pilot
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Agreed five pilot areas
Developed a policy
Health & Safety checks
Pilot outcome:
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Excellent uptake of facilities
Internet used for job searches
Good use of e-mail
Complement rehabilitation programme
Stage 3 – Roll-out
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Some lessons learned to take on board!
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Roll-out agreed on a gradual basis
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Facilities provided for further 25 wards and
areas over 12 months
The Service User Experience
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Internet most popular, used for:
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Planning day time activities
Further information on mental health
Support services available after discharge
Job searches; courses at colleges/universities
On-line shopping – and “window” shopping
Pursue hobbies and interests
Social networks
The Service User Experience
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E-mail:
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MS Office packages:
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Many shown how to send their 1st e-mail!
Excellent means of communication
Type CVs, letters
Poems for publication in local gazette
Basic skills training
Games:
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Improve basic keyboard/mouse skills
Some lessons learned!
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Ensure wards are aware of on-going costs
Include facilities available as part of ward
orientation
Ensure ward staff are trained on the Internet
control software
Create simple guide of “do’s and don’ts”
Openly discuss issues with service users at
“community meetings”