Digital solutions have greatly expanded access to mental health support, although they do not always reach the people who need it most, such as young people in rural, low-income and marginalized communities.
That’s why during a panel discussion at the recent Behavioral Health Tech 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 have a smartphone, access to WiFi is often a major challenge. That’s why partnerships with local governments, school systems, public libraries, pediatric clinics, and youth centers are important.
“Distribute across the school systems and make sure that their guidance counselors, their nurses are connected, even their bus drivers understand what they have to offer and then they can talk about it. [is beneficial]. … They are 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 it is helpful to ensure a cultural fit in digital solutions by involving key stakeholders such as youth, parents and peers in program design and promotion.
Dr. Nikole Benders-Hadi, medical director at digital mental health company Talkspace, echoed these comments, saying the company uses in-person events in schools to spread the word about its services. The company also has a partnership with New York City to offer free online therapy to teens. Through this partnership, it has “Teenspace Ambassadors,” or young adults who help inform others about the program.
He added that it is vital to identify the needs of specific communities.
“Someone from an underserved or more marginalized community may have specific trauma-related needs that you need to be sure you can address. Also from a care delivery standpoint, I would say: [it’s important to have] a diverse network of providers that is able to understand those needs and tailor those specific care needs,” he said.
Another panelist expressed concern regarding the disparity in support offered to commercial members versus those enrolled in Medicaid.
“I’m concerned that sometimes we don’t offer the Medicaid population nationwide access to the same great solutions that the commercial population can experience…I want to make sure it’s equitable regardless of what line of business your insurance is,” said Mike Franz, executive medical director of behavioral health for Regence Health Plans.
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