An Innovative Mental Health Virtual Ward: Evaluation of Patient-Centered Outcomes

An Innovative Mental Health Virtual Ward: Evaluation of Patient-Centered Outcomes

The goal of this study is to evaluate if admission to the Mental Health Virtual Ward (MH vWard) for mental health crisis stabilization is having a meaningful positive impact on patient reported outcomes and healthcare utilization. The objectives of this study are:

1. Prospectively measure demographic, recovery, service delivery, and systems use outcomes in a cohort of MH vWard admissions.
2. establish this cohort for use in future research.

As part of the intervention, participants will receive care in the MH vWard for an average of 5 days following a visit to an emergency department or crisis centre for a mental health crisis. While admitted to the MH vWard, participants will:

1. Engage in individual therapy and care planning with a clinician or psychiatry team.
2. Have engagement with formal (community providers) and informal supports (family, friends) for collateral and collaboration.
3. Receive medication reconciliation and management.
4. Participate in group programming.
5. Receive referrals for follow-up services.
6. Have access to after hours support.
7. Have access to the Telus Home Health Monitoring (HHM) App, which is custom designed to complement the services provided by the program.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Individuals admitted to the Mental Health Virtual Ward.

Exclusion Criteria:

• None.