Improved Access to Mental Health Services
The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) has announced that the NHS App will provide enhanced access to mental health support as part of the 10-year health plan. Key features include:
- Self-referral for talking therapies without needing a GP appointment.
- A free service developed by trusted clinicians to ensure mental health patients receive necessary care.
- 24/7 access to mental health support and advice through the app.
AI-Driven Support Options
The NHS App may introduce AI-driven virtual support as an initial resource for mental health assistance. This could provide:
- Health and wellbeing advice currently available only through paid apps.
- Immediate access to mental health resources.
Government Commitment to Mental Health
Health Secretary Wes Streeting emphasized the importance of timely mental health support, stating:
“Not getting the right support for your mental health isn’t just debilitating; it can halt your life, affecting work and personal relationships.”
He highlighted the government’s dedication to improving access to mental health services through digital solutions and community care.
Growing Need for Mental Health Services
Recent surveys indicate a rise in mental health conditions, with over 22% of adults aged 16 to 64 experiencing common mental health issues, up from 17% in 2007. In response, the government plans to:
- Build 85 new dedicated mental health emergency departments with £120 million allocated from the recent Spending Review.
- Pilot a Neighbourhood Mental Health Model to provide open access to specialist services in community locations.
Future Developments in Mental Health Care
The 10-year health plan will also explore:
- Utilizing pharmacogenomics for personalized prescriptions and treatments.
- Encouraging the public to create a personalized “Mind Plan” via the Every Mind Matters NHS website.
- Integrating an AI tool in the NHS App to address health inequalities and facilitate patient enrollment in clinical trials.