How do we ensure digital mental health solutions reach underserved youth?
Digital solutions have greatly expanded access to mental health support, although they do not always reach those who need it most, such as young people in rural, low-income and marginalized communities.
That's why during a recent panel discussion at the Behavioral Health Technology Conference in San Diego, San Diego Union-Tribune reporter Paul Sisson asked a group of experts how the industry can better reach these groups.
A Cigna executive noted that while most people own smartphones, accessing WiFi is often a significant challenge. That’s why partnerships with local governments, school systems, public libraries, pediatric clinics and teen centers are important.
“Distribute it through the school system and make sure your counselors, your nurses are in touch, even your bus drivers understand what you’re offering and can then talk about it [is beneficial]. … They're really on the front lines of the mental health epidemic,” said Jason Youngblood, senior director of behavioral health at Cigna Healthcare.
Youngblood also emphasized that involving key stakeholders such as youth, parents and peers in program design and rollout can help ensure cultural fit of digital solutions.
Dr. Nikole Benders-Hadi, chief medical officer of digital mental health company Talkspace, echoed the comments and said the company uses in-person events in schools to promote its services. The company also has a partnership with New York City to provide free online therapy to teens. Through this partnership, it has “Youth Space Ambassadors,” young people who help inform others about the program.
She added that identifying the needs of specific communities is crucial.
“People from underserved or marginalized communities may have specific trauma-related needs, and you have to make sure you're addressing those needs. Also in terms of care delivery, I would say, [it’s important to have] A diverse provider network is able to understand those needs and adapt to those specific care needs,” she said.
Another panelist expressed concern about the disparity in support provided to commercial members versus those enrolled in Medicaid.
“I'm concerned that sometimes we're not able to provide the same great solutions to the Medicaid population across the country that the commercial population can experience… I want to make sure that no matter what industry your coverage is in, it's equitable,” said Mike Franz, executive medical director of behavioral health at Regence Health Plans.
Photo: Richard Drury, Getty Images
