Harmonize: A Comprehensive Patient and Provider Connectivity Solution for the Management of Mental Disorders

Abstract

Mental illness and associated disorders are deep social problems that are largely ignored. Individuals with mental illnesses face many obstacles such as stigma, prejudice, and unemployment, which dissuades them from seeking help. The emergence of COVID-19 brought light to the importance of mental health. Current online patient–provider networking services act as the proverbial phone book, and finding the right provider can be a shot in the dark. There is a lack of opportunity to converse, connect or interact with providers without paying for a formal appointment. As a result, patients have a hard time finding a compatible provider. In this paper, we present details of a comprehensive journal-like patient and provider connectivity solution for the management of mental disorders. In addition to providing a platform for individuals with mental disorders to confidentially connect with medical service and insurance providers, it allows for group forums among peers. Communication and trust can be enriched with a networking application that allows patients (under an anonymous alias) and providers to freely monitor, like mention and interact with one another before initial contact. Building a privacy-focused networking platform on top of well-known communication mediums like forums and blogs can enhance communication, visibility, and understanding. Better communication, trust, and understanding lead to high-quality therapy.