Digital Therapeutics Enhance Mental Health at Froedtert & MCW
Milwaukee, Tuesday, 10 December 2024.
Digital therapeutics, including online cognitive behavioral therapy, have significantly improved mental health outcomes at Froedtert & MCW, showcasing a 23% reduction in depression and 26% in anxiety scores.
Implementation and Early Success
Since initiating their digital formulary in 2017, Froedtert & the Medical College of Wisconsin Health Network has transformed mental healthcare delivery through their partnership with SilverCloud [1]. As of December 8, 2024, the program has reached a significant milestone with over 10,000 enrolled participants [1]. The digital cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) program has demonstrated remarkable clinical improvements, with patients experiencing a 23 percent reduction in depression scores (PHQ-9) and a 26 percent reduction in anxiety scores (GAD-7) [1].
Accessibility and Patient Engagement
A key feature of the initiative is its no-cost accessibility to patients, removing financial barriers to mental healthcare [1]. Dr. Bradley Crotty, chief digital officer at Froedtert & MCW, emphasizes that these tools complement traditional therapy, allowing patients to work on their mental wellness at their own pace [1]. The program has achieved an impressive 92% patient satisfaction rate [1], demonstrating its effectiveness in meeting patient needs. The digital system’s seamless integration into provider workflows through the electronic health record (EHR) has been crucial for scaling the program effectively [1].
Institutional Impact and Economic Context
This digital therapeutics initiative aligns with MCW’s broader institutional success, operating within a healthcare network that generates significant economic impact. As of December 5, 2024, MCW reported a nearly $6 billion economic impact for fiscal year 2023 [2][4]. The organization’s commitment to innovation is further evidenced by its consistent recognition, including ranking in the top 3.1% of U.S. employers [2]. The implementation of digital therapeutics represents a strategic investment in modern healthcare delivery, supported by MCW’s robust financial foundation [2].
Future Developments and Expansion
Looking ahead, Froedtert & MCW plans to expand their digital mental health services with an uncoached stress and resilience module for community members [1]. This expansion aims to extend mental health support beyond their current patient base. However, Dr. Crotty emphasizes the importance of thorough market analysis when selecting digital tools [1], ensuring that future implementations maintain the high standards of care established by their current program.