A digital step forward for mental health treatment

Plus, history, a hub, and a challenge — it's all innovation this week.

Author

Emily Edwards
October 23, 2024

Welcome to this week’s Midweek Memo. In this issue, read about a history innovation at Harbour Air, a hub for innovation through the Centre for Ocean Applied Sustainable Technologies, and an innovation challenge with Ocean Aid.

Now onto today’s briefing. It’s 705 words: a three-minute read.

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Source: The Healing Institute

A digital step forward for mental health treatment

Victoria’s HiBoop, a mental health assessment platform, announced a partnership with the Healing Institute. The union will see the mental health and addiction treatment centre put HiBoop’s digital tools to use in a three-month clinical pilot program.

HiBoop’s platform is intended to improve the diagnostic process for patients who require timely support. In HiBoop’s own words:

Using a scientifically backed algorithm that randomizes questions, the platform generates reliable scores across various conditions. These results are compiled into a holistic mental health profile, guiding healthcare providers toward the most appropriate care pathway.

Throughout the clinical pilot, HiBoop is working directly with healthcare providers to refine the platform and ensure it integrates smoothly into clinical practices. Feedback from both practitioners and patients will be used to further enhance the platform’s functionality and effectiveness.

"Our focus is on giving clinics the tools they need to provide faster, more accurate diagnoses," said Jason Morehouse, founder of HiBoop. "Working with the Healing Institute and other healthcare providers during this pilot is a crucial step in refining our platform so it aligns with the needs of both practitioners and patients."

The program is not currently available outside of clinical settings, but the company hopes to offer a public version in the future.

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📰 More Victoria innovation news

✈️ Come fly with me: Bert van der Stege, CEO of Harbour Air, joined the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce’s podcast to discuss the company’s innovation roots.

🧜‍♀️ Under the sea: The Centre for Ocean Applied Sustainable Technologies opened its Victoria innovation hub offering workspace, training, and networking opportunities for businesses in the blue economy.

🔥 Start me up: Victoria’s Ocean Aid joined the fourth cohort of the Ocean Startup Challenge alongside 15 other companies from across Canada.

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