Mixed method study of feasibility and acceptability of electronic screening for measurement-based symptom monitoring of veterans accessing mental health treatment in VA community care program settings
2025

Using eScreening to Help Veterans with Mental Health Treatment

Sample size: 150 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Almklov Erin, Lee Michael W., Gault John D., Blanco Brian H., Huynh Brian, Angkaw Abigail, Doran Neal, Afari Niloofar, Pittman James O.

Primary Institution: VA San Diego Healthcare System

Hypothesis

Can electronic screening improve the monitoring and communication of mental health symptoms for Veterans in community care settings?

Conclusion

eScreening is a promising tool that can enhance the mental health care Veterans receive in community settings.

Supporting Evidence

  • 89% of Veterans had no technical difficulties using eScreening.
  • 78% felt comfortable entering personal information.
  • 83% were neutral or positive about the ease of use of eScreening.
  • Veterans appreciated having their symptoms monitored through eScreening.

Takeaway

This study shows that using a computer program to check on Veterans' mental health can help them get better care.

Methodology

Veterans diagnosed with mental health disorders completed an initial web-based assessment and three follow-up assessments over their treatment period.

Potential Biases

Self-selection bias may have influenced the feedback from participants in qualitative interviews.

Limitations

The study did not track reasons for participant dropout or the clinical actions taken based on the communication of PRO data.

Participant Demographics

30% female; 27% Hispanic/Latino; 53% White; 24% Black/African American; 15% Asian American; 6% Pacific Islander/Native Hawaiian; 2% American Indian.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.001

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/s12913-024-12029-1

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