Using technology to enhance provider expertise in pediatric behavioral health
Technology can be used to increase provider expertise.
Families in the United States face a mental health crisis. Over a third of Americans do not have access to mental health care providers. Many children need mental health care. Pediatricians, family doctors, and nurses can help fill the gap.
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) created the National Rural Adolescent and Child Health ECHO Training Center (Training Center). The Training Center helps rural providers better support their pediatric patients. It provides group learning, virtual lessons, and mentoring. The model uses an “all teach, all learn” approach.
The Training Center launched an ECHO program on children’s mental health. Providers from across the country learned how to recognize when children have anxiety and depression. Providers shared what they do to help children with these symptoms. They also discussed challenges they face.
Providers from across the country learned how to recognize when children have anxiety and depression.
The program’s success is due to both people and technology.
The program’s success is due to both people and technology. The program helped providers across the country learn from each other. Providers connect with each other during virtual video classes. Thanks to the program, these providers can better care for patients with anxiety and depression. Children get help to improve their physical, mental, and emotional development, no matter where they live.