University of Pittsburgh researchers have developed "Screening Wizard" (SW), a technology-based decision support tool designed to assist primary care providers (PCPs) in responding to depression and suicidality screens in adolescents. This innovative tool collects and analyzes reports from both adolescents and their parents on mental health symptoms, treatment preferences, and potential barriers to treatment. SW provides detailed summaries to PCPs, highlighting discrepancies between adolescent and parent reports, and aims to enhance decision-making to increase the utilization of evidence-based treatments.
Description
Screening Wizard (SW) is a decision support tool that guides PCPs in addressing mental health concerns in adolescents. The tool includes separate screens for adolescents and parents to report on mental health symptoms, treatment preferences, and barriers to seeking treatment. SW generates comprehensive reports for PCPs, including EPIC "dot phrases" for easy documentation, links to treatment guidelines, and patient handouts. By identifying discrepancies between adolescent and parent reports, SW helps PCPs make informed decisions and provide tailored care.
Applications
• Primary care decision support for adolescent mental health
• Screening and assessment of depression and suicidality
• Enhancing utilization of evidence-based treatments
Advantages
This technology offers a comprehensive approach to mental health screening and decision support in primary care settings. By incorporating patient preferences and barriers to treatment, SW provides a personalized and holistic view of the adolescent's mental health. The tool's integration with EPIC and provision of treatment guidelines and patient handouts streamline the documentation and treatment process. SW's ability to identify discrepancies between adolescent and parent reports further enhances the accuracy and effectiveness of care.
Invention Readiness
The invention is currently at the software development stage, with promising initial results. Screening Wizard has been tested and refined through user feedback, and further development is ongoing to enhance its features and effectiveness.
IP Status
Software
