Solution
We designed an academic platform meant to enroll patients by taking an assessment known as the EPDS (a well-known and validated tool), monitor them virtually, then provide care recommendations based on their assessment results. Recommendations include resources and/or treatments like self-treatment options as well as referrals to a specialist for additional care where needed.
We met with and interviewed the users, in this case antenatal women with potential symptoms of depression and/or women with a previous history of a maternal mental health condition. Learning directly from key users was an especially enlightening process in this case because it allowed us to design a tool that would be easily accessible to their unique scenarios of use. New moms and pregnant women are often on their phones googling answers or reading up on forums into the wee hours of the night. The way we designed the tool allows for ease of access and the light and warm colour palette are a friendly and inviting backdrop to a quick survey experience.
The design of the pilot includes an interface for both the patient and a care coordinator to help monitor and oversee the patients in the system.