Togetherall now available via ORCHA digital health libraries
The Togetherall community platform passes ORCHA’s health technology review, with 87%
We are delighted to announce that the Organisation for the Review of Care and Health Apps (ORCHA) has certified Togetherall for inclusion on ORCHA’s libraries following an in-depth review of the platform.
The body, which reviews and certifies digital health products and services, gave Togetherall a rating of 87%, exceeding the 65% threshold required to meet quality standards and regulations.
This means that Togetherall will be available in ORCHA’s digital health libraries of accredited, compliant, and safe products and apps. These libraries are available to healthcare and mental health professionals to help them navigate the myriad tools available and make informed choices about relevant and trusted services for their patients.
ORCHA’s assessment
At a time when the digital health market remains unregulated, ORCHA acts as a global leader in assessing digital products and providing access to trusted and safe healthcare technologies through its libraries.
ORCHA’s review measured Togetherall in the three primary areas of Professional Assurance, Data and Privacy, and Usability and Accessibility, with Togetherall exceeding in all three.
The review comprises standards drawn from several sources including an adapted version of the NICE Evidence Standards Framework. The assessment looks at services individually to determine which of ORCHA’s 350+ assessment criteria are relevant, providing appropriately weighted assessments for each app reviewed.
Improving local digital healthcare pathways
ORCHA works alongside Integrated Care Systems (ICS) and secondary and primary care providers across the NHS to curate localised digital libraries of accredited health apps and tools. Local health and care staff can use these libraries to recommend apps to patients.
While public health objectives and app availability differ from region to region, mental health is a primary focus for commissioners and public health teams seeking to offer greater local choice at the same time as integrating health strategies across regions.
Henry Jones, Togetherall’s CEO commented on the news:
“I am delighted with the findings of ORCHA’s review of Togetherall. With it comes a recognition of our community as a safe and compliant option for mental health support; one that is trusted by healthcare professionals.
“Togetherall’s inclusion in ORCHA’s libraries will make it easier for our partners in public health and commissioning to provide access to our platform as part of offering local choice and appropriate care pathways.”
The rise of digital mental health
In a study published in the BMJ, ORCHA research scientists found that between January 2019 to December 2020, searches for digital health products increased by 343% following the first lockdown and 92% of medical condition areas saw an increase in searches.
Digital services have transformed the delivery of mental health support since the pandemic, as Togetherall explored in its recent discussion with public health leaders and commissioners.
Every week, thousands of patients and health and care professionals search ORCHA’s libraries to find apps or recommend products to patients and service users.
