Improving Deployment-Related Primary Care Provider Assessments of PTSD and Mental Health Conditions
Abstract
This project addresses the need for research on service delivery approaches for Service Members with combat-related physical or psychiatric symptoms, including Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and/or post-concussive symptoms. As a primary care encounter, the post-deployment health reassessment (PDHRA) process is critical to force health protection efforts. The project will develop and test the efficacy of a focused training and feedback intervention for health care providers designed to increase Service member reports of behavioral health concerns and Service member acceptance of a referral for further assessment. The project has two goals. (1) Develop an evidence-based training program for providers who deliver deployment related assessments. (2) Evaluate the feasibility and efficacy of a targeted training and feedback program on primary care provider interviews and clinical communication patterns related to Service member behavioral health condition identification and referrals. To accomplish these aims, a training workshop that incorporates experiential learning strategies and evidence-supported characteristics of high quality communication training programs was piloted at 4 sites, reaching 23 providers. Multi-method and multi-reporter data include survey data (Service members and providers), program manager interviews, and electronic health data. Preliminary analyses indicate positive impact of the workshop: (a) rated as acceptable and feasible by participating providers; (b) increased providers patient-centered communication skills and expected behaviors during PDHRA interview as rated by Service members; (c) increased providers identification of BH concerns in context of PDHRA encounters where Service members anonymously reported BH concerns; and (d) affected PDHRA provider documentation, with more concerns and One Source referrals yet fewer medical referrals. Further analyses, including covariates, are planned for year five.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 01, 2013
- Accession Number
- ADA612362
Entities
People
- Leonard Bickman
- Stephanie Boyd
- Susan D. Kelley
Organizations
- Vanderbilt University