Health Technology Assessment and Social Network in Mental Health: a pilot study to evaluate use of new technology communication in prevention, monitoring and treatment of mental disorders in Trentino region.

The clinical use of Information Communication Technology tools can facilitate the support of population groups at risk and / or with chronic conditions. Social networks and other forms of communication represent an opportunity to improve the quality of care and patient empowerment. The study intends to evaluate, in accordance with the dictates of the HTA, the possibilities related to the use of social networking technologies in the prevention and taking care of mental illness. On the basis of these results and in agreement with the context of the Trentino health system, several application proposals will be developed for the treatment of patients with bipolar disorder. The conclusion of the evaluation, and the related clinical and organizational data to support the implementation process in the Trentino health system is expected in the month of October 2014.