Innovations in mental health services implementation: a report on state-level data from the U.S. Evidence-Based Practices Project
2006

Innovations in Mental Health Services Implementation

Sample size: 8 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Jennifer L Magnabosco

Primary Institution: VA Center for the Study of Healthcare Provider Behavior, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System

Hypothesis

Can innovative implementation activities be identified from data sources that describe the processes, activities and methods states used to prepare, initially implement and plan for sustainability of the EBP Project?

Conclusion

The study identifies and classifies 106 innovative implementation activities and strategies used by states to implement evidence-based practices in mental health.

Supporting Evidence

  • 106 innovative implementation activities and strategies were identified across five categories.
  • Stakeholder relationship building was the most prevalent activity in the Pre-Implementation phase.
  • Financing activities were most prevalent during the Initial Implementation and Sustainability Planning phases.
  • States expressed a commitment to rolling out all EBPs despite budget crises.

Takeaway

This study looked at how different states are trying new ways to improve mental health services, and found many creative ideas that can help make these services better.

Methodology

Content analysis of site visit reports and key informant interviews conducted during two observational periods.

Potential Biases

The coding of implementation activities was performed by a single researcher without replication, which may introduce bias.

Limitations

The study only captures a subset of activities and strategies due to the secondary analysis and limited time frame of data collection.

Participant Demographics

Participants included state mental health and substance abuse agency directors, EBP Project implementation team members, and consumers.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1748-5908-1-13

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