Expanding Access Through Digital Therapeutics?

I came across this article in Psychology Today and thought it did a nice job of explaining how DTx programs can help address some of the immense gaps in access to mental health care. In the article, Dr. Espie describes the “dual mental health crises” we are currently experiencing: a stark increase in reports of symptoms of depression and anxiety among teens and adults, and too few providers to address the need.

Dr. Espie helps clarify the difference between wellness apps and digital therapeutics (spoiler alert: DTx programs are held to a higher level of clinical evidence, which should meet standards of medical therapeutics. He says “each app needs to prove the efficacy of its interface and its specific delivery of CBT”). He then goes on to argue that DTx products can provide a way to scale mental health care to the millions who need it.

This article makes some great points about how DTx can expand access to mental health care, but there is a long way to go before we can expect this emerging industry to solve the raging mental health crisis. For one, many DTx programs are not indicated as “stand-alone” therapies, meaning you may still need to consider some other support. Also, distribution and reimbursement are variable across programs and many companies are still working through this. Some DTx are prescription, meaning you would still need to find a doctor to provide the program. Many DTx are relatively expensive, priced higher than your average wellness app with no clear path to having insurance cover it.

I read another article today in the NYTimes about the particular mental health crisis among adolescents and the lack of appropriate and timely care. It feels obvious that DTx programs could help address this need. In fact, late last year Limbix announced the launch of their Digital Therapeutic for adolescents with symptoms of depression. But then again, what if the rise of everything digital and virtual is the root cause of the exacerbating teen mental health crisis? Is another app or program the answer? Or do we need more “real” experiences?

So do I think that DTx can expand access to care, and help fill some gaps? Absolutely. But will this solve our mental health crisis? Unfortunately, probably not.