· Use health technology and telehealth to improve access and coordination of mental health care, especially for Americans in remote areas or in underserved populations
· Develop and implement integrated electronic health and personal health information systems
Understanding the Goal
ü Mental health care lags in using technology
ü Access to care is a concern in rural and other underserved areas
ü Information technology can now enhance medical records systems
ü Consumers may not have access to reliable health information
Achieving the Goal
ü Underserved populations can benefit from health technology
ü Electronic medical records will improve coordination and quality
ü Personal health information systems can help consumers manage their own care
NAMI Ohio Action Steps
1. Operate the NAMI Ohio Helpline as a link to local services and support. Technology has expanded the Helpline to include email requests as well as calls to the toll-free line. NAMI staff fulfills:
· An average of 225 requests for information and referrals received via telephone, mail and email each week, resulting in more than 12,000 Helpline contacts to NAMI Ohio each year.
· Roughly 2,300 requests for assistance necessitate research and follow-up requiring between 2 and 8 hours staff time each.
· Requests for follow-up materials are sent within 24 hours.
· Individuals are referred to a local NAMI affiliate as well as other appropriate local resources.
2. Advocate for the expansion of the video and telehealth technology to better serve remote and Appalachian communities that have limited access to psychiatric services.
3. Maintain webmembership and act as a liaison between NAMI National and local affiliates.
4. Maintain the NAMI Ohio email alert network.
5. Distribute newsletters and electronic legislative action alerts (NewsBriefs and The Voice) to NAMI members and mental health stakeholders across Ohio.
6. Maintain the NAMI Ohio Website with links to other websites.
- 7. Work with our partners to develop a database that will allow for the dissemination of system enhancing information.
