Study of Digital Navigators Helping Patients and Medical Staff Use Mental Health Apps

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating how Digital Navigators DN can assist general practitioners, outpatient psychiatrists, psychologists, and their patients in using digital mental health apps DiGAs and integrating them into treatment. The study aims to understand the opportunities and barriers to implementing DNs, acceptance and expectations towards them, and their effects on patients psychological health and digital literacy. Medical assistants and other medical team employees receive training to become Digital Navigators. These trained navigators support treatment teams in selecting and integrating suitable mental health apps and accompany patients for 12 weeks to help them find and use an appropriate app. The study includes a preliminary phase with interviews and focus groups, followed by DN training and a 12-week intervention period with 48 patients. Participants undergo assessments before and after the 12-week intervention to measure digital health literacy, acceptance and expectations of Digital Navigators, psychological health, and digital competence. Data collection involves interviews, focus groups, and validated scales to evaluate symptom severity and treatment effects. The study also evaluates implementation barriers and aims to establish accredited DN training for sustainable use.

Digital Navigators for Acceptance and Competence Development with Mental Health Apps