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Liao TH, Rindfleisch JA, Howard KP, Castellani M, Noyes SG. Advancing a new model of collaborative practice: a decade of Whole Health interprofessional education across Veterans Health Administration. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2024; 24:987. [PMID: 39256757 PMCID: PMC11389288 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-024-05945-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2024] [Indexed: 09/12/2024]
Abstract
Large-scale implementation of interprofessional education across the United States Veterans Health Administration has supported advancement of a new model of collaborative practice, the Whole Health System, centering on the patient and what matters most to them. Other health care systems can consider similar educational efforts for health care transformation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theresa H Liao
- Office of Patient Centered Care and Cultural Transformation, Veterans Health Administration, Washington, DC, USA.
- Section of General Medicine, Portland VA, Portland, OR, USA.
| | - J Adam Rindfleisch
- Department of Family Medicine and Community Health, University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI, USA
| | - Kelly Peyton Howard
- US Army Training and Doctrine Command, Holistic Health and Fitness Directorate, Richmond, Virginia, USA
| | - Marc Castellani
- Office of Patient Centered Care and Cultural Transformation, Veterans Health Administration, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Sara Grimsgaard Noyes
- Office of Patient Centered Care and Cultural Transformation, Veterans Health Administration, Washington, DC, USA
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Haun JN, Schneider T, Ballistrea LM, McMahon-Grenz J, Melillo C, Benzinger R, Paykel JM. Veterans' lived experiences with the VA's Whole Health system and perceived impact on dimensions of wellness. Explore (NY) 2024; 20:554-561. [PMID: 38184376 DOI: 10.1016/j.explore.2023.12.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/08/2024]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION What are the lived experiences and wellness related outcomes of veterans engaged in the Department of Veterans' Affairs (VA) Whole Health (WH) system of care? THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK This qualitative work was conducted with a pragmatic phenomenological approach to understand patients' lived experience within the WH system of care. Data were contextualized within a multi-dimensional wellness model. METHODOLOGY This descriptive quality improvement project used semi-structured telephone interviews. Interview script elicited veterans' WH participation experiences and perceived wellness related outcomes. CONTEXT Data were collected within a WH Service, at a large Veterans Health Administration Hospital in the Southeast United States. SAMPLE SELECTION Data were collected with a purposive sample of veterans that participated in at least 2 WH activities. DATA COLLECTION Patients were recruited by WH clinical team collaborators to participate in qualitative data collection. ANALYSIS AND INTERPRETATION Rapid content analysis and interpretation of results were conducted in alignment with dimensions of wellness constructs. MAIN RESULTS WH offers veterans' non-pharmacological tools to improve mental, physical, and social wellness. Participants (n = 50) represented the larger veteran population. Most veterans perceived a positive WH experience with improvement of three primary dimensions including mental and emotional, physical, and social wellness - impacts on other dimensions gleaned less perceived impact. Veterans reported adopting mindfulness and coping strategies, better mobility, pain management, and sleep quality, and enhanced social engagement. Even those who did benefit personally from all aspects of WH, felt the services are needed to support the larger veteran population. Reduced suicidal ideation and pain medication use emerged as a WH effect among approximately 10% of the sample.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jolie N Haun
- Research and Development Service, James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital, Research Service, 8900 Grand Oak Circle, Tampa, FL 33637, United States; Division of Epidemiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, United States
| | - Tali Schneider
- Research and Development Service, James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital, Research Service, 8900 Grand Oak Circle, Tampa, FL 33637, United States
| | - Lisa M Ballistrea
- Research and Development Service, James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital, Research Service, 8900 Grand Oak Circle, Tampa, FL 33637, United States
| | - Julie McMahon-Grenz
- Research and Development Service, James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital, Research Service, 8900 Grand Oak Circle, Tampa, FL 33637, United States
| | - Christine Melillo
- Research and Development Service, James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital, Research Service, 8900 Grand Oak Circle, Tampa, FL 33637, United States
| | - Rachel Benzinger
- Research and Development Service, James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital, Research Service, 8900 Grand Oak Circle, Tampa, FL 33637, United States.
| | - Jacquelyn M Paykel
- Whole Health Service, James A. Haley Veterans Hospital, Tampa, FL 33637, United States
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Skliarova T, Pedersen H, Holsbrekken Å, Pedersen SA, Mandal A, De Las Cuevas C, Havnen A, Gråwe R, Lara-Cabrera ML. Psychoeducational group interventions for adults diagnosed with attention-deficit/ hyperactivity disorder: a scoping review of feasibility, acceptability, and outcome measures. BMC Psychiatry 2024; 24:463. [PMID: 38902683 PMCID: PMC11191191 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-024-05908-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Although psychoeducational group interventions are increasingly used for adults diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), a comprehensive review focused on the feasibility and acceptability indicators of these interventions remains lacking. Furthermore, although previous research has explored various aspects of psychoeducation for ADHD, such as its definition and approaches, limited research has focused on the synthesis for outcome measures and patients' experiences related to these interventions. Therefore, this scoping review aims to map the existing evidence reported on psychoeducational group interventions for adults diagnosed with ADHD. The objective is to provide a comprehensive overview of feasibility indicators, acceptability, and outcome measures used in psychoeducational group interventions. METHOD A comprehensive structured literature search on the topic was performed in seven bibliographic databases, and the resulting records were independently screened, and their data extracted by two reviewers. We followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-S) to ensure the transparency and rigor of this scoping review. RESULTS The searches yielded 7510 records. Eight studies met the inclusion criteria. These included studies were conducted in European countries and the United States. Among these, six studies used a randomized control design, one an open feasibility trial, and one a pre-post intervention design. All the studies reported some feasibility and acceptability indicators. While all the studies reported on the severity of symptoms of ADHD as an outcome measure, some also reported on outcomes related to psychological or mental-health problems, quality of life, changes in knowledge regarding ADHD, or the level of self-esteem, functioning, and impairment. CONCLUSION This scoping review revealed that psychoeducational group interventions are generally acceptable for patients in terms of patient satisfaction with the group intervention. All included studies reported some feasibility indicators, with some reporting good attendance and relatively low dropout rates. Most studies reported positive effects on ADHD and mental health symptoms, suggesting that these interventions are beneficial for adults with ADHD. However, several gaps exist regarding the reporting on the feasibility indicators, acceptability, and outcome measures employed across studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana Skliarova
- Department of Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway.
| | - Henrik Pedersen
- Department of Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
- Division of Psychiatry, Nidaros Community Mental Health Center, St. Olavs University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Åshild Holsbrekken
- Division of Psychiatry, Nidaros Community Mental Health Center, St. Olavs University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Sindre Andre Pedersen
- Library Section for Research Support, Data and Analysis, NTNU University Library, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
| | - Arthur Mandal
- Vårres Regional User-Led Center Mid-Norway, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Carlos De Las Cuevas
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dermatology and Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of La Laguna, San Cristóbal de La Laguna, Canary Islands, Spain
| | - Audun Havnen
- Library Section for Research Support, Data and Analysis, NTNU University Library, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Psychology, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
| | - Rolf Gråwe
- Department of Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Mental Healthcare, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Mariela Loreto Lara-Cabrera
- Department of Mental Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU), Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Mental Healthcare, Nidelv Community Mental Health Center, St. Olavs University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
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Haderlein TP, Guzman-Clark J, Dardashti NS, McMahon N, Duran EL, Haun JN, Robinson SA, Blok AC, Cutrona SL, Lindsay JA, Armstrong CM, Nazi KM, Shimada SL, Wilck NR, Reilly E, Kuhn E, Hogan TP. Improving Veteran Engagement with Virtual Care Technologies: a Veterans Health Administration State of the Art Conference Research Agenda. J Gen Intern Med 2024; 39:21-28. [PMID: 38252243 PMCID: PMC10937853 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-023-08488-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024]
Abstract
Although the availability of virtual care technologies in the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) continues to expand, ensuring engagement with these technologies among Veterans remains a challenge. VHA Health Services Research & Development convened a Virtual Care State of The Art (SOTA) conference in May 2022 to create a research agenda for improving virtual care access, engagement, and outcomes. This article reports findings from the Virtual Care SOTA engagement workgroup, which comprised fourteen VHA subject matter experts representing VHA clinical care, research, administration, and operations. Workgroup members reviewed current evidence on factors and strategies that may affect Veteran engagement with virtual care technologies and generated key questions to address evidence gaps. The workgroup agreed that although extensive literature exists on factors that affect Veteran engagement, more work is needed to identify effective strategies to increase and sustain engagement. Workgroup members identified key priorities for research on Veteran engagement with virtual care technologies through a series of breakout discussion groups and ranking exercises. The top three priorities were to (1) understand the Veteran journey from active service to VHA enrollment and beyond, and when and how virtual care technologies can best be introduced along that journey to maximize engagement and promote seamless care; (2) utilize the meaningful relationships in a Veteran's life, including family, friends, peers, and other informal or formal caregivers, to support Veteran adoption and sustained use of virtual care technologies; and (3) test promising strategies in meaningful combinations to promote Veteran adoption and/or sustained use of virtual care technologies. Research in these priority areas has the potential to help VHA refine strategies to improve virtual care user engagement, and by extension, outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taona P Haderlein
- VHA HSR&D Center for the Study of Healthcare Innovation, Implementation, & Policy, Los Angeles, CA, USA.
- Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Emergency Management Evaluation Center, Sepulveda, CA, USA.
| | | | - Navid S Dardashti
- NYU Grossman School of Medicine, New York, NY, USA
- VA New York Harbor Healthcare System, New York, NY, USA
| | - Nicholas McMahon
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research, VA Bedford Healthcare System, Bedford, MA, USA
| | | | - Jolie N Haun
- Research and Development Service, James A. Haley Veterans Hospital, Tampa, FL, USA
- Division of Epidemiology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Stephanie A Robinson
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research, VA Bedford Healthcare System, Bedford, MA, USA
- The Pulmonary Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Amanda C Blok
- VA Center for Clinical Management Research, VA Ann Arbor Healthcare System, United States Department of Veterans Affairs, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
- Department of Systems, Populations and Leadership, University of Michigan School of Nursing, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Sarah L Cutrona
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research, VA Bedford Healthcare System, Bedford, MA, USA
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Jan A Lindsay
- Houston VA HSR&D Center for Innovations in Quality, Effectiveness and Safety, Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Houston, TX, USA
- South Central Mental Illness Research, Education and Clinical Center (A Virtual Center), Houston, TX, USA
- Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
- Rice University's Baker Institute for Public Policy, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Christina M Armstrong
- Connected Health Implementation Strategies, Office of Connected Care, Veterans Health Administration, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Kim M Nazi
- Trilogy Federal, LLC, Arlington, VA, USA
- KMN Consulting Services, LTD, Coxsackie, NY, USA
| | - Stephanie L Shimada
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research, VA Bedford Healthcare System, Bedford, MA, USA
- Department of Health Law, Policy and Management, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
- Division of Health Informatics and Implementation Science, Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Nancy R Wilck
- Connected Health Implementation Strategies, Office of Connected Care, Veterans Health Administration, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Erin Reilly
- VISN 1 Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center (MIRECC), VA Bedford Healthcare System, Bedford, MA, USA
- University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Eric Kuhn
- National Center for PTSD, Dissemination and Training Division, VA Palo Alto Healthcare System, Menlo Park, CA, USA
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Timothy P Hogan
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research, VA Bedford Healthcare System, Bedford, MA, USA
- Peter O'Donnell School of Public Health, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
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Kligler B, Khung M, Schult T, Whitehead A. What We Have Learned About the Implementation of Whole Health in the Veterans Administration. JOURNAL OF INTEGRATIVE AND COMPLEMENTARY MEDICINE 2023; 29:774-780. [PMID: 36445191 DOI: 10.1089/jicm.2022.0753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
As we have advanced the concept of Whole Health (WH) in the Veterans Administration over the past 10 years, we have had the unique advantage of working in a health care system in which a wide range of WH services-ranging from acupuncture to coaching to yoga and Tai Chi to nutrition classes to peer-facilitated empowerment and skill-building groups-are fully covered by the system as part of standard medical benefits. This has given us the opportunity to evaluate both the process and the outcomes of offering this type of Whole Person care on a system-wide scale. This article will review some of the lessons learned from that ongoing evaluation process in the areas of integration of complementary/integrative health approaches as well as health coaching and peer-led groups, WH education, employee well-being, cost impacts, and whole-system transformation. This is not a systematic review, as we will touch on numerous questions and lessons learned rather than dive deeply into the literature seeking the answer to one narrower question. Hopefully the narrative review approach taken here will stimulate further discussion in the field regarding what we are learning and what we can continue to learn from this large scale innovation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin Kligler
- Office of Patient Centered Care and Cultural Transformation, Veterans Health Administration, Washington, DC, USA
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Maureen Khung
- Office of Patient Centered Care and Cultural Transformation, Veterans Health Administration, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Tamara Schult
- Office of Patient Centered Care and Cultural Transformation, Veterans Health Administration, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Alison Whitehead
- Office of Patient Centered Care and Cultural Transformation, Veterans Health Administration, Washington, DC, USA
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Etingen B, Smith BM, Zeliadt SB, Kaitz JE, Barker AM, Hyde JK, Fix GM, Reed DE, Anderson E, Hogan TP, Bokhour BG. VHA Whole Health Services and Complementary and Integrative Health Therapies: a Gateway to Evidence-Based Mental Health Treatment. J Gen Intern Med 2023; 38:3144-3151. [PMID: 37442899 PMCID: PMC10651564 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-023-08296-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Engagement in evidence-based psychotherapy (EBP) among veterans with behavioral health conditions is often low. The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is implementing a "Whole Health (WH)" system of care, to identify veteran personal health goals, align care with those goals, and offer services designed to engage and empower veterans to achieve well-being. OBJECTIVE To examine the relationship between veteran WH utilization and subsequent engagement in EBP. DESIGN Retrospective analysis of VHA administrative records from 18 facilities implementing WH. SUBJECTS Veterans (n = 265,364) with a diagnosis of depression, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and/or anxiety who had a mental healthcare encounter but no EBP use in fiscal year (FY) 2018. Among this cohort, 33,146 (12.5%) began using WH in FY2019. MAIN MEASURES We examined use of an EBP for depression, anxiety, and/or PTSD within 1 year of the index date of WH use compared to use of an EBP anytime during FY2019 for veterans not identified as using WH. We used multiple logistic regression to examine the association between veteran WH use and EBP engagement. KEY RESULTS Approximately 3.0% (n = 7,860) of the veterans in our overall cohort engaged in an EBP in the year following their index date. Controlling for key demographic, health, and utilization variables, WH users had 2.4 (95% CI: 2.2-2.5) times higher odds of engaging in an EBP the following year than those with no WH utilization. Associations between utilization of specific WH services (vs. no utilization of that service) and engagement in an EBP in the subsequent year ranged from 1.6 (95% CI: 1.0-2.6) to 3.5 (95% CI: 3.2-3.9) across the different types of WH services used. CONCLUSIONS WH use was associated with increased engagement in EBPs among veterans with depression, anxiety, and/or PTSD. Future interventions intended to promote veteran engagement in EBPs may benefit from leveraging WH services and therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bella Etingen
- Center of Innovation for Complex Chronic Healthcare (CINCCH), Edward Hines Jr. VA Hospital, Hines, IL, USA.
| | - Bridget M Smith
- Center of Innovation for Complex Chronic Healthcare (CINCCH), Edward Hines Jr. VA Hospital, Hines, IL, USA
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Steven B Zeliadt
- Seattle-Denver Center of Innovation for Veteran-Centered and Value-Driven Care, VA Puget Sound Healthcare System, Seattle, WA, USA
- University of Washington School of Public Health, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Jenesse E Kaitz
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research (CHOIR), VA Bedford Healthcare System, Bedford, MA, USA
| | - Anna M Barker
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research (CHOIR), VA Bedford Healthcare System, Bedford, MA, USA
| | - Justeen K Hyde
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research (CHOIR), VA Bedford Healthcare System, Bedford, MA, USA
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Gemmae M Fix
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research (CHOIR), VA Bedford Healthcare System, Bedford, MA, USA
- Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - David E Reed
- Seattle-Denver Center of Innovation for Veteran-Centered and Value-Driven Care, VA Puget Sound Healthcare System, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Ekaterina Anderson
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research (CHOIR), VA Bedford Healthcare System, Bedford, MA, USA
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
| | - Timothy P Hogan
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research (CHOIR), VA Bedford Healthcare System, Bedford, MA, USA
- Peter O'Donnell Jr. School of Public Health, UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Barbara G Bokhour
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research (CHOIR), VA Bedford Healthcare System, Bedford, MA, USA
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, Worcester, MA, USA
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Post D, Baker A, Milanese S, Freegard S, Parfitt G. The physical, psychological, and social impacts of participation in the Invictus Pathways Program: A qualitative analysis of veterans' perceptions and experiences. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0287228. [PMID: 37903173 PMCID: PMC10615282 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0287228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/01/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION UniSA's Invictus Pathways Program (IPP) is motivated by the spirit of the Invictus Games to mobilise the benefits of sport to aid physical, psychological, and social wellbeing. Originally developed to assist veterans to train for and participate in the Invictus Games, the program has extended its scope to promote recovery and wellbeing for all veterans through physical activity. This paper describes the expectations and experiences of the IPP from the perspective of program participants. METHODS Objective measures of physical and psychological wellbeing were collected by survey, to enable description of the participating veterans' wellbeing status. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 15 participants of the IPP who had not participated in an Invictus Games or Warrior Games. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to analyse the interview data. Coding and themes were developed through a mixture of inductive and deductive approaches to analysis. Initial themes related to previous life experience, expectations of participation, and outcomes of participation were preconceived, but the analysis provided scope for an inductive approach to formulate additional themes. FINDINGS Five of the participants had very high K10 scores, and scores above the norm for PCL-C, whilst one would be classified with an alcohol disorder. The qualitative analysis identified five higher order themes: Life experiences prior to participation in the IPP, Making a choice to participate in the IPP, Expectations of participation in the IPP, Impact of participation in the IPP, and Future Plans. There were perceptions that the IPP was beneficial for the participating veterans, irrespective of their physical and psychological health status. Participants described the positive impact of the IPP on their physical fitness, their social engagement, and their sense of belonging within the IPP and the university. Participants perceived the IPP to be an opportunity for them to 'give back' by contributing to the education of the students delivering the IPP. Participants reported the intention to continue being physically active. For some, this meant selection in an Invictus Games team, for others, this meant getting involved in community sporting organisations. CONCLUSION The Invictus Pathways Program has been shown to have a positive impact on the physical and psychological wellbeing of the veterans who participated in its initial stages. As the program evolves, the longitudinal impact of participation, for veterans and their families, will be assessed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dannielle Post
- Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition, and Activity (ARENA), Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Amy Baker
- Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Steven Milanese
- International Centre for Allied Health Evidence (ICAHE), Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Suzana Freegard
- Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition, and Activity (ARENA), Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Gaynor Parfitt
- Alliance for Research in Exercise, Nutrition, and Activity (ARENA), Allied Health and Human Performance, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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Chronic, Noncancer Pain Care in the Veterans Administration. Anesthesiol Clin 2023; 41:519-529. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anclin.2023.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/17/2023]
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Mercier JM, Hosseiny F, Rodrigues S, Friio A, Brémault-Phillips S, Shields DM, Dupuis G. Peer Support Activities for Veterans, Serving Members, and Their Families: Results of a Scoping Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:3628. [PMID: 36834328 PMCID: PMC9964749 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20043628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 02/08/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
For many, including military veterans and their families, support between individuals with shared lived experiences, or peer support, has long been utilized as a way to support each other through many different challenges. Building on other reviews and guided by the seven domains of well-being in the Canadian veteran well-being framework, the objective of this paper is to describe and catalogue the nature of peer support activities and related outcomes in the veteran, serving member, and family member populations. A scoping review following the five stages outlined by Arksey and O'Malley was conducted; it was guided by the question: What is currently known about peer support activities for veterans, serving members, and their families that has been evaluated in the literature? In total, 101 publications from 6 different countries were included in this review and catalogued based on publication characteristics, participant information, peer support activity information, and peer information. Peer support activities have the potential to positively influence the well-being of veterans, serving members, and their families on a holistic level across multiple domains. This scoping review highlights the existing gaps in the literature and provides an important foundation for future research on peer support for these populations, specifically in the Canadian context.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Fardous Hosseiny
- Atlas Institute for Veterans and Families, Ottawa, ON K1Z 7K4, Canada
| | - Sara Rodrigues
- Atlas Institute for Veterans and Families, Ottawa, ON K1Z 7K4, Canada
| | - Anthony Friio
- National Police Federation, Ottawa, ON K2P 1P1, Canada
| | - Suzette Brémault-Phillips
- Heroes in Mind Advocacy and Research Consortium, Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 2R3, Canada
| | - Duncan M. Shields
- Faculty of Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z4, Canada
| | - Gabrielle Dupuis
- Atlas Institute for Veterans and Families, Ottawa, ON K1Z 7K4, Canada
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Richard BO, Abadi MH, Drake CD, Rychener D, Bauer R. "A reinstilled hope that they can change": Facilitator perspectives on a self-care and health promotion peer group program for veterans. Front Public Health 2023; 10:968281. [PMID: 36684905 PMCID: PMC9851664 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.968281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction This study assessed the relevance, value, and effectiveness of "Taking Charge of My Life and Health" (TCMLH), a patient wellbeing peer group program for U.S. veterans focused on empowering them to identify what really matters in their lives and to work toward health goals that align with their mission, aspirations, or purpose in life. The potential of TCMLH to empower veterans to engage in self-care behaviors, make health behavior changes, and participate in health care decision making is important, as veterans are more likely than the general population to suffer from multiple chronic conditions that require ongoing self-management. Methods We conducted individual semi-structured interviews with 19 TCMLH facilitators serving in eight U.S. Veteran's Health Administration medical centers. Data were analyzed using an inductive approach to identify salient themes in facilitators' experiences. Results Facilitators reported that TCMLH participants demonstrated positive attitude changes (e.g., greater confidence and hope) and behavior changes (e.g., making healthcare appointments and implementing self-care practices) by program completion. Further, findings show that mindful awareness practices, the peer group setting, Whole Health assessment tools, and goal setting tools were perceived as the most impactful program elements leading to positive health behavior change. Conclusion Overall, findings suggest that this non-clinical peer group program can enhance patient wellbeing, and that there are certain program elements of TCMLH that are driving key attitudinal and behavioral changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bonnie O. Richard
- Louisville Center, Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation, Louisville, KY, United States
| | - Melissa H. Abadi
- Louisville Center, Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation, Louisville, KY, United States
| | - Connor D. Drake
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC, United States
- Durham Center of Innovation to Accelerate Discovery and Practice Transformation, Durham Veterans Affairs Health Care System, Durham, NC, United States
| | - David Rychener
- Louisville Center, Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation, Louisville, KY, United States
| | - Rachel Bauer
- Louisville Center, Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation, Louisville, KY, United States
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Anderson E, Dvorin K, Etingen B, Barker AM, Rai Z, Herbst AN, Mozer R, Kingston RP, Bokhour BG. 'It Makes You Sit Back and Think Where You Wanna Go': Veteran experiences in virtual whole health peer-led groups. Health Expect 2022; 25:2548-2556. [PMID: 35957491 PMCID: PMC9615064 DOI: 10.1111/hex.13581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) is building a Whole Health system of care that aspires to empower and equip each Veteran to pursue a personally meaningful vision of health and well-being. As part of this effort, VHA has developed Taking Charge of My Life and Health (TCMLH), a peer-led, group-based programme that seeks to support Veterans in setting and pursuing health and well-being goals. Prior research showed TCMLH groups to positively impact Veteran outcomes; yet, little is known about Veterans' own experiences and perspectives. METHODS We completed semi-structured telephone interviews with 15 Veterans across 8 sites who had participated in TCMLH groups offered by the VHA in the virtual format between Summer 2020 and Fall 2021. Inductive thematic analysis was applied to interview transcripts to generate themes. FINDINGS We identified five themes regarding Veterans' experiences with TCMLH: (1) navigating the virtual format; (2) internalizing the value of health engagement; (3) making healthy lifestyle changes; (4) forging social connections; and (5) taking on a more active role in healthcare. CONCLUSION Veterans perceived virtual TCMLH groups as meaningful and beneficial, yet also highlighted several challenges. Their perspectives speak to the need to supplement time-limited programmes like TCMLH with ongoing, community-based support. Virtual group-based well-being programmes are a promising innovation. Other healthcare systems may draw on VHA's experience while tailoring format and content to the needs of their patient populations. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION Veterans were involved as evaluation participants. A Veteran consultant, who is a coauthor on this paper, was engaged through the conceptualization of the evaluation, development of data collection materials (interview guide) and writing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ekaterina Anderson
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research (CHOIR)VA Bedford Healthcare SystemBedfordMassachusettsUSA
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health SciencesUniversity of Massachusetts Chan Medical SchoolWorcesterMassachusettsUSA
| | - Kelly Dvorin
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research (CHOIR)VA Bedford Healthcare SystemBedfordMassachusettsUSA
| | - Bella Etingen
- Center of Innovation for Complex Chronic Healthcare (CINCCH)Edward Hines Jr. VA HospitalHinesIllinoisUSA
| | - Anna M. Barker
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research (CHOIR)VA Bedford Healthcare SystemBedfordMassachusettsUSA
| | - Zenith Rai
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research (CHOIR)VA Bedford Healthcare SystemBedfordMassachusettsUSA
| | - Abigail N. Herbst
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research (CHOIR)VA Bedford Healthcare SystemBedfordMassachusettsUSA
| | - Reagan Mozer
- Department of Mathematical SciencesBentley UniversityWalthamMassachusettsUSA
| | - Rodger P. Kingston
- Veteran Engagement in Research Group, Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research (CHOIR)VA Bedford Healthcare SystemBedfordMassachusettsUSA
| | - Barbara G. Bokhour
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research (CHOIR)VA Bedford Healthcare SystemBedfordMassachusettsUSA
- Department of Population and Quantitative Health SciencesUniversity of Massachusetts Chan Medical SchoolWorcesterMassachusettsUSA
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Drake C, Abadi MH, Batchelder HR, Richard BO, Balis LE, Rychener D. National Implementation of a Group-Based Program Promoting Patient Engagement and Peer Support in the Veterans Health Administration: A Multi-Methods Evaluation. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:8333. [PMID: 35886181 PMCID: PMC9321656 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19148333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Revised: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 07/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
Evidence-based approaches promoting patient engagement and chronic illness self-management include peer support, shared decision-making, and education. Designed based on these components, Taking Charge of My Life and Health (TCMLH) is a group-based, 'Whole Person' care program promoting mental and physical self-care and patient empowerment. Despite evidence of effectiveness, little is known about implementation for TCMLH and similar programs. In this first-of-its-kind, multi-methods evaluation conducted between 2015-2020, we report on implementation strategies and intervention adaptations with a contextual analysis to describe TCMLH translational efforts in Veterans Health Administration (VHA) facilities across the United States. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected via listening sessions with TCMLH facilitators, open-ended survey responses from facilitators, and quarterly reports from clinical implementation sites. We used the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) to analyze, interpret, and organize qualitative findings, and descriptive statistics to analyze quantitative data. Most TCMLH programs (58%) were adapted from the original format, including changes to the modality, duration, or frequency of sessions. Findings suggest these adaptations occurred in response to barriers including space, staffing constraints, and participant recruitment. Overall, findings highlight practical insights for improving the implementation of TCMLH, including recommendations for additional adaptations and tailored implementation strategies to promote its reach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Connor Drake
- Center of Innovation to Accelerate Discovery and Practice Transformation, Durham Veterans Affairs Health Care, Durham, NC 27705, USA
- Department of Population Health Sciences, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27701, USA
| | - Melissa H. Abadi
- Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation, Louisville, KY 40202, USA; (M.H.A.); (B.O.R.); (L.E.B.)
| | - Heather R. Batchelder
- Department of Community Health and Family Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, NC 27710, USA;
| | - Bonnie O. Richard
- Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation, Louisville, KY 40202, USA; (M.H.A.); (B.O.R.); (L.E.B.)
| | - Laura E. Balis
- Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation, Louisville, KY 40202, USA; (M.H.A.); (B.O.R.); (L.E.B.)
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Haun JN, Paykel J, Melillo C. Transforming Health and Resiliency Through Integration of Values-based Experiences: Implementation of an Electronic Evidence-based Whole Health Clinical Program. JMIR Form Res 2021; 5:e26030. [PMID: 34184996 PMCID: PMC8278298 DOI: 10.2196/26030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 05/16/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Complementary and integrative health (CIH) is the foundation of the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Whole Health System program (WH), including Transforming Health and Resiliency through Integration of Values-based Experiences (THRIVE). The global COVID-19 pandemic prompted an urgent need to provide services such as THRIVE while following guidelines for social distancing. OBJECTIVE The objective of this paper was to describe the systematic implementation of THRIVE using an electronic delivery model. METHODS The study involved an observational clinical program implementation project using the RE-AIM framework to contextualize the implementation strategies and results, and then the implementation of an electronically delivered CIH group medical appointment program (eTHRIVE). RESULTS Clinical staff transitioned to 100% electronic delivery of the THRIVE curriculum using the new eTHRIVE delivery model. The current electronic delivery model, eTHRIVE, has effectively enrolled 10-12 veterans per cohort, with 8 cohorts, totaling 87 veterans to date. eTHRIVE attrition has been 6% (5/87) since initiation. CONCLUSIONS The current climate of the VA WH programmatic initiative combined with the public health needs during a global pandemic prompted the move of THRIVE program into an electronic format to broaden scalability and reach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jolie N Haun
- Research Service, James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital, Tampa, FL, United States.,Department of Community & Family Health, University of South Florida, Tampa, FL, United States
| | - Jacquelyn Paykel
- Whole Health Service, James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital, Tampa, FL, United States
| | - Christine Melillo
- Research Service, James A. Haley Veterans' Hospital, Tampa, FL, United States
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Abadi M, Richard B, Shamblen S, Drake C, Schweinhart A, Bokhour B, Bauer R, Rychener D. Achieving Whole Health: A Preliminary Study of TCMLH, a Group-Based Program Promoting Self-Care and Empowerment Among Veterans. HEALTH EDUCATION & BEHAVIOR 2021; 49:347-357. [PMID: 34018443 DOI: 10.1177/10901981211011043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE An emerging literature suggests patients with chronic illnesses can benefit from integrated, person-centric approaches to health care, including group-based programs. However, much of the research in this area is disease specific. The objective of this study was to collect preliminary evidence on the efficacy of Taking Charge of My Life and Health (TCMLH), a Whole Health group-based program that emphasizes self-care and empowerment on the overall health and well-being of veterans, a population burdened with high rates of multiple chronic conditions. METHOD Self-reported outcomes, including standardized survey measures, were collected at pretest, posttest, and 2-month follow-up from 77 participants across 15 groups at four VA sites. Random intercept mixed-model regressions were used to analyze data. RESULTS Results from this initial study showed high satisfaction with the program and facilitators, and high attendance. There were significant pre-post gains in self-care attitudes and behaviors, patient motivation, meaning and purpose, mental health, perceived stress, goal progress, and goal-specific hope. Outcomes were maintained at 2-month follow-up for patient motivation, perceived stress, goal-specific hope, and goal progress. Significant gains were observed in health care empowerment and physical health from pretest to follow-up. CONCLUSIONS Preliminary findings support the efficacy of TCMLH, a Whole Health group-based program that emphasizes patient empowerment, self-care practices, and peer support. Future research priorities include a rigorous evaluation with a larger sample size and control group to assess effectiveness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Abadi
- Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Bonnie Richard
- Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - Steve Shamblen
- Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation, Louisville, KY, USA
| | | | | | - Barbara Bokhour
- Center for Healthcare Organization and Implementation Research, Bedford, MA, USA.,Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Rachel Bauer
- Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation, Louisville, KY, USA
| | - David Rychener
- Pacific Institute for Research and Evaluation, Louisville, KY, USA
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