Strategies for the successful introduction of computer technology in a mental health care setting: the problem of change

ABSTRACT

An innovative approach to mental health care delivery which makes use of on-line computer technology is described. Results of a formal evaluation study of this system are summarized. These results indicate that the computer supported system has the capability of effecting improvements in mental health care delivery. However, it has also been learned that clinical staff have difficulties in accepting innovative approaches to patient care, and furthermore, that their resistance to change limits the effectiveness of the new system. Strategies to effect clinician acceptance of these changes and the positive results of these strategies, are also discussed.

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