Finding help for OCD in Australia: development and evaluation of a clinician directory

Abstract

Objective: People tend to live with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) for many years before receiving evidence-based treatment. This delay is partly due to a lack of access to information about which healthcare providers offer evidence-based treatment for OCD. This information was not easily accessible online for people in Australia. Methods: In this study, we describe how an online directory of clinicians was developed and evaluated. We report on a needs analysis and survey of treatment-seeking histories among consumers and carers impacted by OCD. We describe the key features of the directory developed, and present survey feedback on its usability and utility. Results: The results validated the need for a directory specific to clinicians who offer evidence-based treatment for OCD, and that it meets essential usability standards. Areas for improvement and further developments were identified. Conclusion: This directory contributes to broader efforts invested to improve the treatment-seeking process for people living with OCD in Australia.