In 2016, a smartphone application based on the S-Check service model of care, the S-Check App, was developed by the Stimulant Treatment Program at St Vincent’s Hospital Sydney, to expand and enhance service provision. The aim of the app is to reduce problematic methamphetamine (MA) use through i) engaging MA users who are not seeking traditional modes of treatment, and ii) developing app users’ knowledge of MA and the risks and harms associated with MA use. The app provides self-assessment of social health and lifestyle, physical health, sexual health and psychological wellbeing. Feedback is provided along with support resources and information on MA. App users can track their MA and its associated risks over time. A 2017 pilot study of the S-Check app supported its acceptability and ease of use from a consumer perspective.
Evaluation of an updated version of the app via a randomised wait-list controlled trial (259 participants) showed that the intervention group reported almost double the rate of seeking professional help compared to controls. Further, increased app engagement was linked to a higher likelihood of seeking help and a decrease in MA use.
Published papers