Health App pilot launched to allow easy access to mental health support at home

Young man looking at his phone in a light, airy room

Five of our mental health services are taking part in a pilot designed to help professionals recommend approved, evidence-based health apps to people living in Berkshire.

In Partnership with the Organisation for the Review of Care and Health Apps (ORCHA), our mental health professionals have created a library of approved health apps. These have been thoroughly assessed for safety and effectiveness before being added to our Berkshire Healthcare App Library. The ORCHA review process involves seven steps and only apps that meet stringent requirements can be recommended.

Read more about ORCHA’s Health App review process (opens in new window)

Theresa Wyles, Director of Mental Health Services at Berkshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust said:

“The Health App Library will give our mental health professionals the confidence to recommend certified health apps which can make an impact on a person’s ability to manage their health and wellbeing. We hope the pilot demonstrates how helpful apps can be alongside healthcare as we move forward in our digital age.”

The pilot will assess effectiveness using qualitative patient feedback and measuring improvement in patient health, as well as assessing efficiency and experience for professionals.

The services involved in the pilot include Mental Health Integrated Community Services (MHICS), Crisis Resolution Home Treatment Team (CRHTT), Perinatal Mental Health, Talking Therapies and Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAMHS).

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