Abstracts from the 15th International Conference for Healthcare and Medical Students (ICHAMS)
Year: 2026
Type: conference-abstract
Abstract: IntroductionLatvia faces one of the lowest psychiatrist-to-population ratios in the EU (15/100,000) and prolonged waiting times for psychiatric care.To address systemic treatment gaps, Latvia launched its first governmentfunded Internet-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (iCBT) program in 2024, adapting a validated model from Finland's Helsinki University Hospital and HealthFox platform.The pilot aimed to evaluate feasibility, patient engagement, therapeutic safety, and early implementation outcomes within the public mental health sector.The initiative also sought to assess how digital delivery could reduce regional inequality and improve access for underserved populations.Methods Adults aged 18-25 with mild-to-moderate depression or anxiety disorder were referred through psychiatrists and family doctors to guided iCBT modules.The program included weekly therapist-supervised sessions, interactive app-based exercises, and standardized assessments (PHQ-9, GAD-7, WHO-5, MSPSS, C-SSRS).Therapists provided individualized feedback, crisis monitoring, and motivational support through
Source: BMC Proceedings
Language: English
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,290
OpenAlex ID: W7224342102