Practices in London are to have access to “clinically proven” therapeutic apps to help patients with common mental health problems, it has been announced.
The apps help tackle low mood, stress, poor sleep and anxiety, according to the Healthy London Partnership.
About 75% of GPs in the city will be able to refer patients to use the apps, using an NHS approved digital mental wellbeing service called Good Thinking.
The four apps have been developed commercially and the new programme ensures that appropriate fees are paid for their use.
NHS regional medical director Dr Vin Diwakar said: “Mental health problems are common and more people are looking for new ways to help to improve their wellbeing than ever before. One in four adults will experience mental illness at some point in their lives. Most people who experience mental health problems recover fully, or are able to live with and manage them, especially if they get help early on.
“Digital technology presents us with new opportunities to deliver NHS services differently, enabling more people to access the treatment and support they need.
“This is a great example of what we need to see in a modern NHS world that places the patient needs at the heart of everything we do, ensuring we design the service around what people need and when they need it the most.”
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