66. DATA OVERLOAD IN THE DIGITAL AGE: CAN DIGITAL PHENOTYPING CREATE LIABILITY FOR CLINICIANS?

Abstract

Introduction

Digital phenotyping is quickly gaining traction and more widespread availability. This emerging technology has the potential for collecting large amounts of precise, temporal patient data, ultimately leading to enhanced monitoring, detection, and personalization of healthcare. However, this firehose of data generated by digital phenotyping may create a dilemma for clinicians already inundated with information.

Methods

In this study, we consider the potential risks if actionable data are missed. We provide an overview of the current legal framework for clinician liability and extrapolate its use in digital phenotyping.

Results

With no established best practices in digital phenotyping, we recommend that clinicians create a written notice for each patient that details how the data will be collected and monitored, as well as consider sharing the raw data with the patient when appropriate.

Conclusions

Guidelines for digital phenotyping must be developed now to get ahead of the eventual widespread use of digital phenotyping technology in clinical care. A proactive declaration of best practices will help guide the development of an evidence-driven and ethically sound standard of care for using digital phenotyping in clinical mental health practice and the information that should be provided to patients.