Interest in technology-based therapies hampered by access: A survey of veterans with serious mental illnesses

Computer technology is used in various ways to deliver and enhance health care. It is therefore important to understand technology use patterns among underserved populations such as persons with serious mental illnesses who often experience inequitable care.

A survey was administered to 210 veterans with serious mental illnesses attending programs at a Department of Veterans Affairs community care center, with data collected on demographics, psychiatric diagnoses, access, use, and willingness to use cell phones, smart phones, Internet-based online social networking, and computerized therapies. Descriptive and multivariable analyses were conducted to determine utilization and interest in different technologies.

Although 80.4% of the respondents reported owning a cellphone, only 30.3% reported they had a computer and 13.1% reported owning a smartphone. Although 56.7% reported using the Internet and 47.6% indicated they used e-mail, 68.6% of respondents reported that they were interested in using computer programs for mental health-related problems. Older, less educated veterans, and those with alcohol use disorders were less likely to use the Internet. Veterans who were White or had PTSD diagnoses were less willing to use any computerized therapy.

Lower rates of computer use, Internet, and cell phone technologies were observed among veterans with serious mental illnesses compared to general population surveys. Sociodemographic barriers likely impede access to technology among veterans with serious mental illnesses. Providing financial resources and associated education and training to veterans with serious mental illnesses could increase access to helpful technology-based interventions in a population that traditionally experiences service gaps. (PsycINFO Database Record