The Mood Assessment Program is now on the Australian map

Abstract

To report on the wide uptake and utility of the freely available Mood Assessment Program (MAP) since its introduction as a tool to assist diagnosis and management of mood disorders. By mid-2012, some 16,000 patients had completed the MAP. We analyse data derived from such a sample. The majority of patients utilizing this service were referred by general practitioners, psychologists and psychiatrists from within New South Wales (NSW). The great majority across age bands found the MAP easy to complete and judged that it covers issues relating to their mood disorder very well or completely. The MAP is available for use Australia-wide with ready referral access for patients of mental health practitioners in general practice, psychiatry, psychology and social work. The online availability of the service makes it ideal for use in areas where access to health services is limited.