Lifeline4Moms 1.0

Lifeline4Moms is an application designed for healthcare providers, offering decision-support tools to help obstetric professionals address the maternal mental health needs of their perinatal patients. The app comprises five distinct sections: Screening, Assessment, Treatment, Medication Chart, and Risks and Benefits of Medications.

While the app does not provide individualized medical recommendations, it presents evidence-based guidelines that focus specifically on the mental health considerations for perinatal women. The Screening section allows providers to input the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) score, commonly used by obstetric providers. Following this input, users proceed to the Assessment section, which clarifies various screening scores, elaborates on symptom severity, and offers potential talking points for explaining results to patients, as well as suggested treatment options.

The Treatment section outlines a range of evidence-based interventions, including Self-Care, Support Groups, Therapy, and Medication. Each section includes Talking Points that assist providers in discussing mental health issues and concerns with their patients effectively.

Prior to accessing the Medication Chart, users are guided through a brief Bipolar Disorder Screen consisting of 2-3 questions, which aligns with best practices before considering medication for depression. Providers are subsequently led through a series of inquiries regarding their patients' current medication practices, such as whether patients are currently taking an antidepressant or have a history of antidepressant use.

Providers gain access to well-researched information pertaining to first-line (SSRIs) and second-line treatment strategies. This includes details on starting doses, medication titration strategies, therapeutic ranges, potential side effects, and recommended next steps based on clinical improvement or lack thereof. Additionally, the app provides references to further resources for enhanced support.