Computers in the Workplace

The industry that I have chosen to review is the mental health industry. My current understanding of information technology related to mental health is what I would call adequate. Therapy has been around for quite a while, but computer have slowly integrated into the practice. Computers are important to therapists for many reasons. A primary function of a computer in this industry is to improve quality of care. Clinicians utilize computers as a means to document treatment digitally which is often faster and can be more secure than written records. Computers make these digitally stored records more easily transferred between facilities which can improve care by allowing a new provider to see a patient’s history faster. Computers also are important for the patients in the terms of care and ease of access. Individuals who suffer from severe anxiety and depression historically miss appointments which create barriers for recovery. The innovation of computers in care has allowed for what we call “telehealth.” Telehealth allows clients to attend therapy in a non-traditional way via a video screen. This reduces the patient’s social anxiety and lowers the motivational requirements involved with going out in public. In addition to telehealth, there are also apps which individuals can utilize for mindfulness when they are experiencing symptoms and need external support to regulate their anxiety.

 
A provider who is computer literate can help individuals with the transition to this unconventional therapy style and interventions. For an individual to adopt a new intervention to help with their recovery they often look to the subject matter expert for initial guidance as well and maintenance. This is especially true when providing these interventions and treatment styles with individuals who might not be computer literate. At times, in addition to being their therapist you are an IT specialist.

Over the next ten years it is likely that this trend digital therapy will only increase for the convenience of the provider, but also to improve the quality of care for patients. Computer hardware and software will only improve to make telehealth systems more portable, but also make it easier for individuals who are technologically challenged to get care. It is possible that the trend of apps playing a more critical role in patient’s care.