Electronic Screening to Support Measurement Based Care: Examples from the Field

Abstract

Background Measurement-based care (MBC) is associated with improved patient outcomes, but is seldom fully implemented. Electronic self-report screening systems may help overcome some obstacles associated with implementing MBC. One such program, eScreening, provides customized and automated self-report mental and physical health screening via mobile tablet for veterans seen in Veterans Health Administration (VHA) settings and by web browser for patients seen remotely by telemedicine. We aimed to describe how electronic health screening systems can support the implementation of measurement-based behavioral healthcare. Methods We collected descriptive data on the use of eScreening, including clinical settings, measures used, and frequency of use; and present a brief case composite example. Results eScreening was used in multiple VHA clinical programs to administer validated symptom severity measures at baseline and regular intervals during treatment. The case composite example describes a Veteran referred to the PTSD clinic where he was treated with Cognitive Processing Therapy. eScreening was used routinely to track mental health symptoms, promote collaborative dialogue, and inform treatment progress. Conclusion Electronic self-report screening systems can support the implementation of MBC by facilitating the process of routine symptom collection/monitoring, informed decision-making, objective evaluation of treatment outcomes, and collaborative care in behavioral healthcare settings.