Documentation and regulation are on the rise. On average, clinicians spend 30% of their day doing paperwork that contributes little if anything to the health and welfare of their clients. What’s more, research shows that a high documentation to clinical service ratio leads to higher rates of:
- Burnout and job dissatisfaction among clinical staff;
- Fewer scheduled treatment appointments;
- No shows, cancellations, and disengagement among consumers.
What practice not only insures accountability but simultaneously improves the quality and outcome of behavioral health services? According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), one evidence-based strategy is routinely and formally seeking feedback from consumers about how they are treated and their progress.
Earlier this year, I reviewed several electronic systems that make gathering and utilizing consumer feedback a snap.
Last week, one of these–MyOutcomes–was recognized by the National Health Service in the UK. Diane Tetley from Lincolnshire Partnership Foundation Trust was awarded the Medipex Innovation Award in the mental health and well being category for her work in using the system to track and enhance consumer engagement and progress.
Using cutting-edge technology to help clinicians help is what the award is all about. Congratulations to Diane, and the dedicated crew at MyOutcomes. The system provides a simple, elegant, and highly efficient method for implementing feedback-informed treatment in individual and agency treatment settings.
Rob McNeilly says
I bet it leads to healthier therapists as well. Congratulations for bringing some sanity into mental “health”!
Wendy Amey says
Well done on your successful outcome in influencing statutory services in the UK.