The Power of Data in Mental Healthcare

10/25/23

In the ever-evolving healthcare landscape, one thing is certain - change is inevitable. In recent years, healthcare has seen a shift from a fee-for-service model to a value-based one¹. But, when it comes to mental health, this change has been gradual.

Traditional models encourage patients to attend numerous therapy sessions, but it doesn’t have to be this way. In surveys, therapists believe that 85% of their patients got better after receiving treatment under this model. However, research suggests the actual rates of improvement are between 40%-60%².

To bridge the gap between provider beliefs and patient’s actual outcomes, it is more important than ever that patient-reported outcomes are integrated into mental healthcare. In this article, we will explore the significance of incorporating outcomes data into mental healthcare and how it has the potential to revolutionize the way we provide care and support to those facing mental health challenges.

The Current Landscape

In a world where mental health awareness is on the rise, we’ve come to recognize the prevalence of mental health disorders and the importance of addressing them. The statistics are staggering and remind us that awareness alone is not enough. It’s time to bring real change to our approach to mental healthcare.

• One in five adults in the United States are affected by a mental health issue each year. That’s nearly 50 million individuals³.
• As of 2020, suicide is the 2nd leading cause of death for U.S. children ages 10-14⁴.
• The effects of depression and anxiety can be measured in $1 trillion lost for the global economy each year⁴.

Value-Based Mental Healthcare

The shift to a value-based approach to mental healthcare is slowly but surely gaining momentum, bringing with it the promise of better outcomes and improved patient care. Drawing inspiration from a recent Harvard Business Review article, here are five key considerations for implementing value-based mental healthcare at your practice⁵.

Specify Outcomes

Clearly define the desired outcome of mental health treatments. What do we hope to achieve and how will we measure the success of treatment? In OBERD, you can easily see how a patient reports their condition. This includes measures before treatment begins, reports during the course of treatment and timepoints after they have completed therapy.

Tie Payments to Outcomes

Align financial incentives with positive patient outcomes. This ensures that providers are motivated to deliver effective care. With the data tracked in OBERD, you can easily report to payers and employers how a patient is progressing compared to the goals set before treatment begins.

Tailor the Therapist Network

Customize the network of therapists to match the unique needs of patients, ensuring the best fit for each individual patient. Guaranteeing a patient has access to the appropriate provider (that they are comfortable working with) is key to effective treatment.

Carefully Screen Patients

Identify which patients are most likely to benefit from a specific intervention and tailor their treatment plan accordingly. By measuring a patient's condition before they start treatment, OBERD lets you effectively vet patients and connect them with the proper provider.

Optimize Access

Make mental healthcare accessible to all who need it. Leverage tools such as online counseling and embrace innovative approaches to reach underserved parts of the population. OBERD addresses accessibility with Wellness. This one form allows patients to report on their physical condition, mental well being, and provides access to educational and therapeutic materials on any device, wherever the patient may be.

The Power of Outcomes Based Healthcare

By embracing data-driven approaches and value-based care in mental healthcare, we can make a tangible difference in the lives of those suffering from mental health challenges. Connect with our team to learn how outcomes data can revolutionize mental healthcare.

References

1. Abou-Atme, Z., Alterman, R., Khanna, G., & Levine, E. (2022, December 16). Investing in the new era of value-based care. McKinsey & Company.
2. Lambert, M. J. (2010). Prevention of treatment failure: The use of measuring, monitoring, and feedback in clinical practice. American Psychological Association.
3. Mental Health America. (n.d.). Adult data 2022. Mental Health America.
4. Duszynski-Goodman, L. (2023, September 29). Mental health statistics and facts in 2023. Forbes Health.
5. Atluru, A., & Bracaglia, J. (2023, March 3). An outcomes-focused approach to mental health care. Harvard Business Review.