Head to health: Practitioner perceptions of the new digital mental health gateway

To understand health practitioners' attitudes towards the acceptability and usability of the Head to Health digital gateway.

Feedback surveys were completed by health care practitioners to identify experiences with and perceptions of the digital mental health gateway Head to Health. Data from the surveys were evaluated via thematic analysis.

Health care practitioners working in mental health settings participated in three digital mental health workshops facilitated by Queensland University of Technology in 2018. A total of 43 participants explored key features of the Head to Health site and provided feedback via a post-workshop survey.

Clinician feedback about usability, utility, barriers to integration and promotion of the Head to Health digital mental health gateway.

Practitioner feedback highlighted that although many were unaware of the website, overall perceptions were positive with 79% stating they will recommend the site to clients in the future. Thematic analysis revealed four overarching thematic headings; "utility of the Head to Health portal," "usability," "clinician recommendations" and "clinician-led" promotional strategies. Health professionals identified a number of roles they can play in assisting to promote Head to Health more widely.

Overall Head to Health is perceived to be a quality resource of value to health practitioners. There is a need for ongoing government and clinician-led promotion of Head to Health both generally and in the rural setting. Guidelines are required on integration of digital mental health resources into clinical practice.