Dinkel D, Caspari JH, Fok L, et al. (2021). A qualitative exploration of the feasibility of incorporating depression apps into integrated primary care clinics. Translational Behavioral Medicine, Volume 11, Issue 9, September 2021, Pages 1708–1716, https://doi.org/10.1093/tbm/ibab075
The study explored how to integrate mobile apps for treating depression into primary care settings from the viewpoints of patients and clinic personnel. Participants were 17 patients with depression and 15 healthcare providers and staff. Data was collected through focus groups or semi-structured interviews (either in-person or via Zoom) from January to July 2020. Participants were asked about barriers and facilitators to app use, how best to integrate the app into primary care, and feedback on mental health apps more generally. Results showed that most patients have previously used health-related apps, but few have used mental health related apps. Patients found app features such as notifications, information, easy navigation, a support chat function, and ability to share data with their doctor as very helpful. Providers and staff identified facilitators such as integration of app data into electronic health records and clear evidence of effectiveness. All participants who reviewed the depression apps identified at least one that they would be interested in continuing to use. Overall, findings demonstrated that both patients and providers perceive depression apps to be beneficial.