The Mental Health Technology Assessment of Quality (MTAQ): Development of a novel quality assurance framework for digital mental health tools.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The rapid growth of digital mental health tools offers accessible support to a growing global population with mental health needs. However, concerns remain regarding their safety, efficacy, and overall quality, particularly for tools used outside formal healthcare settings. Limited regulation and non-specific quality frameworks exacerbate these issues, often overlooking key elements such as user experience and evidence-based practice.

Objective

This study aimed to develop a comprehensive and pragmatic quality assurance framework for digital mental health tools, tailored to the needs of UK stakeholders.

Methods

A sequential mixed-methods design informed the development of the framework. Participants included mental health service users, academic and clinical

SUBMITTER: Attoe C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12932889 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan-Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature