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Original Articles

Switched on or switched off? A survey of mobile, computer and Internet use in a community mental health rehabilitation sample

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Pages 4-10 | Received 15 Jul 2016, Accepted 19 Apr 2017, Published online: 04 Jul 2017
 

Abstract

Background: UK society is undergoing a technological revolution, including meeting health needs through technology. Government policy is shifting towards a “digital by default” position. Studies have trialled health technology interventions for those experiencing psychosis and shown them to be useful.

Aims: To gauge levels of engagement with mobile phones (Internet-enabled or cell phone), computers and the Internet in the specific population of community mental health rehabilitation.

Method: Two surveys were conducted: with service-users on use/non-use of technologies, and interest in technology interventions and support; and with placements on facilities and support available to service-users.

Results: Levels of engagement in this population were substantially less than those recorded in the general UK and other clinical populations: 40.2% regularly use mobiles, 17.5% computers, and 14.4% the Internet. Users of all three technologies were significantly younger than non-users. Users of mobiles and computers were significantly more likely to live in lower support/higher independence placements. Of surveyed placements, 35.5% provide a communal computer and 38.7% IT skills sessions.

Conclusions: Community mental health rehabilitation service-users risk finding themselves excluded by a “digital divide”. Action is needed to ensure equal access to online opportunities, including healthcare innovations. Clinical and policy implications are discussed.

Declaration on interest

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

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