Experiences and Expectations of Information and Communication Technologies in Flexible Assertive Community Treatment Teams: Qualitative Study (Preprint)

Abstract

BACKGROUND FACT (Flexible Assertive Community Treatment) is a model for integrated care for patients with serious mental illness. However, in Norway FACT team members have challenges with their information and communication (ICT) solutions. OBJECTIVE Our objective was to explore Norwegian FACT teams’ experiences and expectations of their ICT solutions. METHODS Interviews and observations were done in FACT teams targeting adults, and interviews were done in FACT teams targeting youth. A thematic analysis was done of the data. RESULTS We found various challenges with communication, documentation, and organization for FACT teams. The covid-19 pandemic was challenging for the teams and changed the way they used ICT solutions. There were issues with some technical solutions used in the teams: electronic health records, electronic whiteboards, and calendars. Lack of integration and access to data was some of the main issues. CONCLUSIONS Better ICT solutions that are tailored to the way FACT teams work are needed.