A CHESS Health’s Connections app is the only digital therapeutic profiled in a recent Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration advisory about the effectiveness of evidence-based digital interventions in managing and treating behavioral health issues. The advisory summarizes how the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services successfully uses the electronic referral management and client engagement app to improve continuity of care.
In its 16-page advisory on digital therapeutics, SAMHSA recommends evidence-based digital tools, such as Connections, as independent or complementary tools to aid individuals with mental health conditions and substance use disorders (SUD). Connections is a smartphone app that extends the reach of providers by filling critical gaps in care. It offers 24/7 access to a certified peer engagement team and resources to reduce isolation, reinforce coping strategies, improve treatment adherence, and provide crisis support. The app is offered in English and Spanish. Unlike stand-alone apps, Connections is used to augment provider programs and offers a holistic approach to care – reducing a siloed experience. In instances where Individuals require additional 1:1 peer support in the app, providers are notified so the individual receives the comprehensive support needed.
SAMHSA notes that digital therapeutics such as Connections extend the reach of behavioral health and SUD treatments by enabling patients to access the tools wherever they are at any time. They effectively improve access to care, client engagement, and health outcomes, all while reducing costs for care.
The Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services uses digital health interventions that include an electronic referral management and client engagement tool to improve continuity of care. They also use a DTx called Connections app, an evidence-based smartphone app to support the treatment and recovery of Ojlahomans with substance use disorders. Providers are encouraged to use the provider functionality to track client recovery progress, encourage and follow the client’s completion of digital CBT lessons, stay engaged with their clients through group discussions or individual messaging, and more. From September 30, 2021 to September 29, 2022, a total of 1,654 Oklahoman service recipients were actively engaged within the Connections app.
Advisory: Digital Therapeutics for Management and Treatment in Behavioral Health, July 2023
