Developing ‘Virtual Communities’ within CAMHS services Mark Johnson – Director of Informatics – Mental Health Strategies Atif Ali – Project Manager, Greater Manchester CAMHS Joint Commissioning Team
Greater Manchester CAMHS Community
Characteristics Wide geographical spread Multi-agency Wide range of access to technology Multi-disciplinary Multiple range of interest areas
Identified community needs Secure areas Easily accessible Discussion forum Document library Shared contact lists Shared ‘service development’ – projects Planning tools Enhanced communication Relatively cheap
‘Virtual Community’ solution Multi- agency/disciplinary https (128bit encryption) Runs on any WWW and NWW platform (browser) Discussion forum Shared ‘drive’ Shared contacts Transparent and visible Very simple to use Shared project management Very cost effective Managed
Implementation -OITIM (Synder-Halpen 2001)
Admin / Management Need for practical support Pivotal role in building links Efficiency is the key keeping everyone updated Communication = Success Meetings without the venue Spreading the Good word
Processes / Resources Mind the GAP Promote Learning Sharing good practice Building a CAMHS knowledge base Varying range of It equipment Knowledge & Skill levels Inputting extra resources Training & development needs
Values / Knowledge Developed alongside clinical network Multidisciplinary User led Builds upon local developments National agenda (NSF’s) CAMHS identity with host service Regional necessity to enhance collaboration / communication
End Users / Technology Varied range of IT skills Professional boundaries Initial Scepticism Competing priorities Operationalise community processes Increased access to WWW NHS and Social Care Firewalls Use of community outside normal work environment Software reporting Software supplier
Staff Handbooks Staff Process Guides
Front Screen Shared documents
Shared contacts Discussion Board
Issues and Inbox Project Planning
Questions? Questions?