This work is created in collaboration
with International Futures Forum and financed by a grant of the Johnson & Johnson Foundation.
As the COVID-19 pandemic swept across the globe in 2020, it brought not only a health crisis but also a wave of mental health challenges, particularly for frontline healthcare workers worldwide. In the midst of this, New York-Presbyterian (NYP) Hospital recognized a critical need to support the mental well-being of its staff. This led to the development of START (Symptom Tracker And Resources for Treatment), an innovative, AI-enabled digital tool designed to monitor and assist healthcare workers in managing their mental health.
START's approach was comprehensive, addressing more than just symptoms. The questions covered a spectrum of symptoms related to depression, anxiety, and trauma, as well as factors affecting mental health and work performance. Upon completion of the survey, healthcare workers received instant feedback on their mental health status. This immediate response was crucial in providing a sense of support and direction.
For those identified as needing more assistance, START offered a direct link to a telemedicine urgent counseling service. This service, available seven days a week, provided free, confidential, and supportive virtual counseling by trained mental health professionals. This feature was particularly significant as it addressed the common barriers healthcare workers face in seeking mental health services, such as concerns about confidentiality and accessibility.
The impact of START was significant. Within just a week of its deployment, there was a notable increase in the use of NYP's urgent counseling services, indicating the effectiveness of the tool in encouraging healthcare workers to seek help. Frequent communication from NYP leadership about the availability of this mental health resource further contributed to its utilization.
START represented a significant step forward in addressing the mental health needs of healthcare workers during the pandemic. Its innovative use of AI, combined with the commitment to providing accessible care, showcased the potential of digital tools in transforming mental health services. As the tool continued to evolve, it provided invaluable support to healthcare workers at NYP and beyond. In addition, START aimed to integrate its AI technology into a mobile cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) app developed at NYP.
START represented a significant step forward in addressing the mental health needs of healthcare workers during the pandemic. Its innovative use of AI, combined with the commitment to providing accessible care, showcased the potential of digital tools in transforming mental health services. As the tool continued to evolve, it provided invaluable support to healthcare workers at NYP and beyond.