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Mejsner SB, Aslaug J, Bech M, Burau V, Mark D, Vixø K, Westergaard CL, Fehsenfeld M. Exploring New Models for Implementing Sustainable Integrated Health Access for People in Vulnerable Positions: Protocol for a Mixed Methods Multiple Case Study. JMIR Res Protoc 2024; 13:e56197. [PMID: 39178409 PMCID: PMC11380055 DOI: 10.2196/56197] [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: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 08/25/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Health care is a strongly universal right across European welfare states; however, social inequalities in health persist. This literature argues that health care organization is an important but overlooked determinant of social inequalities in health, as health systems buffer or amplify structural and individual health determinants. The Client-Centered Coordination Platform (3CP) model offers integrated health access to people with severe mental illness, through core groups of professionals from across health and social services. OBJECTIVE This study focuses on vulnerable people with severe mental health problems and aims to analyze how the model can give people with severe mental illness more integrated access to health and social care. This can form a stepping-stone for the upscaling of the 3CP model. METHODS We conduct a 5-year multiple case study of 3 municipalities in Denmark, where 3CP is being implemented. In a 1-year pilot study, we expect to gather quantitative registry data from the municipalities and the Central Denmark Region to explore the characteristics of people included in 3CP. We will also collect qualitative data, including 21 hours of observations; 36 interviews with users, professionals, and managers; and 3 focus groups across the 3 municipalities. In a subsequent, 4-year qualitative study, we aim to conduct 120 hours of observations, 120 interviews, and 24 focus groups. In parallel with the qualitative study, we will facilitate a cocreation process to develop tools for sustaining integrated health access. RESULTS As of January 2024, we have completed the individual interviews with users of 3CP and professionals and the focus groups. Individual interviews of managers will be conducted during the 1st quarter of 2024. The quantitative data are being collected. CONCLUSIONS Inequality is one of the greatest challenges that European societies face. Understanding new and innovative approaches to integrated care may provide valuable solutions to the challenges posed. Especially understanding and designing health and social care systems that meet the needs and abilities of those users requiring them most, is vitally important to tackle inequality. INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID) DERR1-10.2196/56197.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jane Aslaug
- Social, Health & Care, Viborg Municipality, Viborg, Denmark
| | - Mickael Bech
- Department of Political Science, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Viola Burau
- Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Dorte Mark
- Central Regional Psychiatry, Central Denmark Region, Viborg, Denmark
| | - Kathrine Vixø
- The Danish Center for Social Science Research (VIVE), Copenhagen, Denmark
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Gaudelus B, Toesca N, Trichanh M. [The new nursing professions in psychiatry: One man's dream, another man's nightmare?]. Soins Psychiatr 2024; 45:44-48. [PMID: 38719361 DOI: 10.1016/j.spsy.2024.03.014] [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] [Indexed: 06/05/2024]
Abstract
The deployment of case management and advanced nursing practice is shaking up the roles of the various professionals on mental health teams, and the usual organization of care in psychiatry. These changes can be perceived as either positive or worrying, depending on each individual's role and position. For the past 3 years, the mobile teams of the Centre rive gauche cluster at Le Vinatier hospital have been organized according to the principles of Flexible Assertive Community Treatment, and include an advanced practice nurse (APN) on their staff. The roles of the case manager and the APN have been rethought. A number of measures have facilitated the implementation of these new functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baptiste Gaudelus
- Équipes mobiles pôle Centre rive gauche, Le Vinatier, Psychiatrie universitaire Lyon Métropole, 95 boulevard Pinel, 69678 Bron, France.
| | - Nicolas Toesca
- Équipes mobiles pôle Centre rive gauche, Le Vinatier, Psychiatrie universitaire Lyon Métropole, 95 boulevard Pinel, 69678 Bron, France
| | - Mélanie Trichanh
- Service psychiatrie, Hôpital d'instruction des Armées Desgenettes 108 boulevard Pinel, 69003 Lyon, France
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Jørgensen K, Søren Hansen M, Bjerrum M, Hansen M, Watson E, Karlsson B. Healthcare Professionals' Experiences of Recovery-Oriented Collaboration Between Mental Health Centres and Municipalities: A Qualitative Study. Issues Ment Health Nurs 2024; 45:264-273. [PMID: 38232186 DOI: 10.1080/01612840.2023.2286477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2024]
Abstract
Collaboration within mental health centres and with municipalities in Western European healthcare has presented challenges due to structural and cultural disparities. The Danish healthcare system faces obstacles that impact mental healthcare services, particularly in cross-sectorial cooperation. Our aim was to investigate healthcare professionals' experiences of recovery-oriented collaboration within a mental healthcare setting across hospitals and municipalities to gather a deeper understanding of this issue. Twenty-four employees were purposively sampled from mental health centres in Copenhagen and focus group interviews were conducted to explore their perceptions of working together. Inductive content analysis was used to analyse the data and identify themes and categories. The participants emphasised challenges in communication and coordination to improve collaboration within across the two sectors. This study can contribute to a greater understanding of collaboration between mental health centres and municipalities. It aims to inspire improvements in communication, coordination, and the optimisation of mental health service delivery across sectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim Jørgensen
- Department of People and Technology, Roskilde University, Roskilde, Denmark
| | | | - Merete Bjerrum
- Research Unit of Nursing and Healthcare, Institute of Public Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Emma Watson
- Nottinghamshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Learning & Development, People and Culture Services, Nottingham, UK
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Tholen MG, Martin A, Stemeseder T, Vikoler T, Wageneder B, Aichhorn W, Kaiser AK. Evaluation of a flexible assertive community treatment (FACT) program for patients with severe mental illness: an observational study in Salzburg, Austria. Int J Ment Health Syst 2024; 18:6. [PMID: 38336693 PMCID: PMC10858489 DOI: 10.1186/s13033-024-00628-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inpatient treatment of severe mentally ill patients binds substantial resources and creates the dilemma of "revolving-door hospitalizations". Evidence suggests that these patients benefit more from an assertive outreach community psychiatric treatment. This descriptive study evaluates the implementation of a new treatment program for severe mentally ill patients provided by a flexible assertive community treatment (FACT) team. METHODS An uncontrolled design with routine data was used to measure the total length of stays, readmission rates and number of contacts one year prior to the implementation of the FACT program and the following first three years of treatment. RESULTS A continuous decrease of hospitalization among patients with severe mental illness was observed with the implementation of the FACT program with declines in total length of stays and readmission rates and accompanied with a decreasing number of contacts per year. CONCLUSION Our findings indicate that this program may create effects in stabilizing patients with severe mental illness and may be highly relevant also for other patient groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias Gerhard Tholen
- Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, University Hospital of Psychiatry, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria.
| | - Anna Martin
- Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, University Hospital of Psychiatry, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Theresa Stemeseder
- Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, University Hospital of Psychiatry, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Thomas Vikoler
- Department of Psychology, University of Salzburg, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Barbara Wageneder
- Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, University Hospital of Psychiatry, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Wolfgang Aichhorn
- Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, University Hospital of Psychiatry, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Andreas Kurt Kaiser
- Psychotherapy and Psychosomatics, University Hospital of Psychiatry, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
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Munch Nielsen C, Hjorthøj C, Arnfred BT, Nordentoft M. Patient Outcomes of Flexible Assertive Community Treatment Compared With Assertive Community Treatment. Psychiatr Serv 2022:appips20220235. [PMID: 36475824 DOI: 10.1176/appi.ps.20220235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In many European countries, flexible assertive community treatment (FACT) has replaced assertive community treatment (ACT) despite limited evidence for FACT's effectiveness in improving functional and patient-reported outcomes. This study evaluated the effectiveness of FACT relative to ACT in improving functioning, client satisfaction, and the working alliance. METHODS The authors used a nonblinded, quasi-experimental controlled study design to compare outcomes of patients treated by ACT teams that were reconfigured to FACT teams with those of patients treated by a remaining ACT team. Patients from nine ACT teams in the Capital Region of Denmark were included. Six of the nine ACT teams were reconfigured to FACT in 2018 and 2019 by integrating them with community mental health teams. The remaining three ACT teams were used as control groups. Assignment to treatment was based solely on administrative considerations. RESULTS The study included 131 patients (FACT, N=74; ACT, N=57). Patients treated by FACT teams had poorer personal and social functioning than patients assigned to ACT teams (adjusted difference in means=-2.9, 95% CI=-5.8 to -0.1). No between-group differences were found in client satisfaction or working alliance. CONCLUSIONS Patients treated by FACT teams had significantly lower functioning than patients treated by ACT teams, but the clinical relevance or causality of this finding remains unclear. Given the reconfiguration of the FACT teams during follow-up, along with substantial drop-out rates and baseline differences between the two groups, these results must be interpreted with caution. The findings require further examination in a randomized controlled trial that includes fidelity measures of the treatment models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilla Munch Nielsen
- Copenhagen Research Center for Mental Health, Mental Health Center Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen (all authors); Section of Epidemiology, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen (Hjorthøj)
| | - Carsten Hjorthøj
- Copenhagen Research Center for Mental Health, Mental Health Center Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen (all authors); Section of Epidemiology, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen (Hjorthøj)
| | - Benjamin Thorup Arnfred
- Copenhagen Research Center for Mental Health, Mental Health Center Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen (all authors); Section of Epidemiology, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen (Hjorthøj)
| | - Merete Nordentoft
- Copenhagen Research Center for Mental Health, Mental Health Center Copenhagen, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen (all authors); Section of Epidemiology, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen (Hjorthøj)
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Jørgensen K, Andreasson K, Rasmussen T, Hansen M, Karlsson B. Recovery-Oriented Cross-Sectoral Network Meetings between Mental Health Hospital Professionals and Community Mental Health Professionals: A Critical Discourse Analysis. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19063217. [PMID: 35328905 PMCID: PMC8956063 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19063217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 03/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Aims and objectives: In the medical field, we lack knowledge on how interprofessional collaboration across sectors is carried out. This paper explores how healthcare professionals and users perceive recovery-oriented cross-sectoral discharge network meetings between mental health hospital professionals and community mental health professionals and which discourses manifest themselves within the field of mental healthcare. Method: Ten professionals from a mental health hospital and eight community mental health professionals participated. In addition, five users with experience in mental health services in both sectors participated. Fairclough’s discourse analysis framework was used to explore their experiences. The study was designed following the ethical principles of the Helsinki Declaration and Danish law. Each study participant in the two intersectoral sectors gave their informed consent after verbal and written information was provided. The Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research checklist was used as a guideline to secure accurate and complete reporting of the study). Results: The healthcare professionals in both sectors are governed by steering tools, legislation and a strong biomedical tradition to solve illness-related problems, such that users must be offered treatment and support to achieve self-care as soon as possible. This can be seen as a reflection of, and a driving force in, a change in the wider social practice that Fairclough terms the ‘marketisation of discourse’—a social development in late modernity, whereby market discourse colonises the discursive practices of public institutions. The user of psychiatric and social services experiences a structured system that does not offer the necessary time for deep conversations. Users do not consider recovery as something that is only seen in relation to the efforts of the professionals, as recovery largely takes place independently of professionals. Recovery depends on users’ internal resources and a strong network that can support them on the journey. Conclusion: Healthcare professionals perceive recovery-oriented cross-sectoral discharge network meetings to reflect paternalistic and biomedical discourses. Users want to be seen more as whole persons and did not experience sufficient involvement in the intersectoral care. Relevance to clinical practice: Healthcare professionals need to be supported to seek clarity in the understanding and operationalisation of a recovery-oriented approach, if the agenda is to be truly adopted and strengthened.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim Jørgensen
- Department of Public Health, Nursing and Health Care, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
- Psychiatric Centre North Zealand, 3400 Hillerød, Denmark;
- Correspondence:
| | | | - Tonie Rasmussen
- Department of Social and Health, Center for Quality and Development, 3460 Birkerød, Denmark;
| | - Morten Hansen
- Psychiatric Outpatient Clinic, Residence Team, 2635 Ishøj, Denmark;
| | - Bengt Karlsson
- Center of Mental Health and Substance Abuse, Department of Health-, Social- and Welfare Studies, Faculty of Health and Social Sciences, University og Southeastern Norway, 3007 Drammen, Norway;
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Tjaden C, Mulder CL, den Hollander W, Castelein S, Delespaul P, Keet R, van Weeghel J, Kroon H. Effectiveness of Resource Groups for Improving Empowerment, Quality of Life, and Functioning of People With Severe Mental Illness: A Randomized Clinical Trial. JAMA Psychiatry 2021; 78:1309-1318. [PMID: 34643679 PMCID: PMC8515257 DOI: 10.1001/jamapsychiatry.2021.2880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Importance Although the importance of recovery-oriented care for people with severe mental illness (SMI) is widely acknowledged, essential elements such as personalization and involvement of significant others are not adequately implemented in practice. Objective To determine whether using resource groups (RGs) within flexible assertive community treatment (FACT) has favorable effects on empowerment and recovery-related outcomes in people with SMI. Design, Setting, and Participants This assessor-blind, multisite randomized clinical trial was conducted from September 1, 2017, to September 30, 2020, with follow-up at 9 and 18 months. A total of 158 participants aged 18 to 65 years meeting the criteria for SMI were randomly allocated to FACT plus RG vs FACT as usual (1:1) in 20 FACT teams throughout the Netherlands. Data were analyzed from September 1, 2020, to January 31, 2021. The study was prespecified in the trial protocol and data from the intent-to-treat population were analyzed. Interventions In the FACT plus RG condition, patients chose members from their informal and formal networks to form an RG that meets quarterly to discuss self-formulated recovery goals. The RG was integrated into the multidisciplinary support provided by the FACT team. In the FACT as-usual condition, empowerment (defined as overcoming powerlessness and gaining control of one's life) and involvement of significant others was also part of the provided care, but without the structure of the RG. Main Outcomes and Measures The primary outcome was self-reported empowerment, measured with the Netherlands Empowerment List. Results A total of 158 participants with SMI (median age, 38 [median absolute deviation, 13] years; 93 men [58.9%]) were randomized to FACT plus RG (n = 80) or FACT as usual (n = 78) care. Intention-to-treat analyses showed that randomization to the RG condition was associated with a clinically significant increase in empowerment (Cohen d, 0.54; 95% CI, 0.21-0.86) and improved outcomes with small to medium effect sizes in terms of quality of life (Cohen d, 0.25; 95% CI, -0.07 to 0.56), personal recovery (Cohen d, 0.38; 95% CI, 0.06-0.69), quality of social contact (Cohen d, 0.24; 95% CI, -0.07 to 0.56), disability (Cohen d, 0.29; 95% CI, -0.03 to 0.60), general functioning (Cohen d, 0.30; 95% CI, -0.01 to 0.62), and social functioning (Cohen d, 0.28; 95% CI, -0.04 to 0.59). No differences between conditions were found regarding psychopathological symptoms, attachment, frequency of social contact, and employment. Compared with FACT as usual, participants who stayed with the assigned treatment in the RG condition were more satisfied with treatment at 9 (Cohen d = 0.45; t135 = -2.62; P = .009) and 18 (Cohen d = 0.41; t116 = -2.22; P = .02) months. Conclusions and Relevance These findings show that working with RGs improves empowerment and other mental health outcomes in people with SMI who receive community-based mental health services. This method of network-oriented care empowers people with SMI within their own environment. Trial Registration Netherlands Trial Register Identifier: NL6548.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cathelijn Tjaden
- Department of Reintegration and Community Care, Trimbos Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Tranzo Scientific Center for Care and Welfare, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tilburg University, Tilburg, the Netherlands
| | - Cornelis L. Mulder
- Department of Psychiatry, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
- Parnassia Psychiatric Institute, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Wouter den Hollander
- Department of Reintegration and Community Care, Trimbos Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Stynke Castelein
- Lentis Research, Lentis Psychiatric Institute, Groningen, the Netherlands
- Faculty of Behavioural and Social Sciences, Department of Clinical Psychology and Experimental Psychopathology, University of Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
- Rob Giel Research Center, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Philippe Delespaul
- School of Mental Health and NeuroSciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
- Mondriaan Mental Health Trust, Maastricht/Heerlen, the Netherlands
| | - Rene Keet
- Department of Community Mental Health, GGZ Noord-Holland-Noord, Heiloo, the Netherlands
| | - Jaap van Weeghel
- Tranzo Scientific Center for Care and Welfare, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tilburg University, Tilburg, the Netherlands
- Phrenos Centre of Expertise, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Hans Kroon
- Department of Reintegration and Community Care, Trimbos Institute, Utrecht, the Netherlands
- Tranzo Scientific Center for Care and Welfare, Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tilburg University, Tilburg, the Netherlands
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The effect of flexible assertive community treatment in Denmark: a quasi-experimental controlled study. Lancet Psychiatry 2021; 8:27-35. [PMID: 33091344 DOI: 10.1016/s2215-0366(20)30424-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Revised: 08/12/2020] [Accepted: 08/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Flexible assertive community treatment (FACT) is a community-based treatment model for patients with severe mental illness that has been widely implemented despite little evidence for its effectiveness. We aimed to evaluate the effect of FACT on mental health care outcomes compared with treatment from standard community mental health teams (CMHTs) or assertive community treatment (ACT) teams in Denmark. METHODS We did a quasi-experimental, propensity-score matched, controlled study in five FACT teams, four ACT teams, and five CMHTs in the Capital Region of Denmark. The FACT teams were established on May 1, 2016 (the index date). Patients were identified through the Danish Psychiatric Register and the study population consisted of all patients receiving care from any of these teams on the index date. Assignment to treatment was based on administrative considerations and was not done by the researchers. Patient data were collected from Danish registers. The primary outcome was analysed in the intention-to-treat population and compared mental health care outcomes (psychiatric admissions and bed days, outpatient contacts, self-harm, coercion, and death by any cause) for patients under the care of CMHTs or ACT teams that were reconfigured to FACT teams (CMHT-FACT or ACT-FACT) with patients who remained under the care of CMHTs and ACT teams. Patients who received FACT were matched using propensity scores with control patients from CMHTs and ACT teams to balance differences in baseline characteristics. FINDINGS On May 1, 2016, 2034 individuals (887 in the CMHT-FACT group, 887 in the matched CMHT group, 130 in the ACT-FACT group, 130 in the matched ACT group) were enrolled and were followed up from Nov 1, 2016, to Nov 1, 2018. The number of outpatient contacts was higher for patients receiving FACT than for those in the control groups (CMHT-FACT vs CMHT: incidence rate ratio 1·15; 95 % CI 1·10-1·20; ACT-FACT vs ACT: 1·15; 1·03-1·29). Patients receiving FACT had fewer admissions than those in the control groups (CMHT-FACT vs CMHT: 0·84; 0·76-0·92; ACT-FACT vs ACT: 0·71; 0·59-0·85). However, there were no significant differences in total inpatient days, use of coercion, episodes of self-harm, or deaths. INTERPRETATION To our knowledge, this is the first study to investigate the effect of FACT compared with treatment from a CMHT or ACT team. Our results suggest that FACT can provide a more intensive approach in terms of increased outpatient contacts than CMHT care or ACT. FACT requires further evaluation through randomised controlled trials that include a cost-effectiveness component before wider implementation. FUNDING Mental Health Services in the Capital Region of Denmark.
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Broersen M, Creemers DHM, Frieswijk N, Vermulst AA, Kroon H. Investigating the critical elements and psychosocial outcomes of Youth Flexible Assertive Community Treatment: a study protocol for an observational prospective cohort study. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e035146. [PMID: 32265243 PMCID: PMC7245379 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-035146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION When adolescents experience complex psychiatric and social problems, numerous healthcare services usually become involved. In these cases, fragmentation of care services is a risk that often results in both ineffective care and in patients disengaging from care services. To address these issues, Youth Flexible Assertive Community Treatment (Youth Flexible ACT) was developed in the Netherlands. This client-centred service delivery model aims to tackle the fragmented care system by providing psychiatric treatment and support in a flexible and integrated manner. While Youth Flexible ACT is gaining in popularity, the effectiveness of the care model remains largely unexamined. METHODS AND ANALYSIS Here, we present an observational prospective cohort (2017-2021) in which a broad range of treatment outcomes will be monitored. The primary aim of the study is to examine change in treatment outcomes over the course of the Flexible ACT care. The secondary aim is to examine the association between (elements of) Youth Flexible ACT model fidelity and treatment outcomes. An estimated total number of 200 adolescents who receive care from one of the 16 participating Youth Flexible ACT teams will be included in the study. Participants will be asked to complete assessments at four time points in 6-month intervals, resulting in a study duration of 18 months. Latent growth curve analysis will be conducted to examine change in psychosocial functioning over time and its relation to model fidelity. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study received ethical approval from Trimbos Ethics Committee (201607_75-FACT2). This approval applies for all participating institutions. The results of the study will be reported in accordance with the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology statement. Results will be disseminated via peer-reviewed academic journals and presentations at conferences. In addition, results will be made available for participating sites, funders and researchers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marieke Broersen
- GGZ Oost Brabant, Oss, The Netherlands
- Tranzo - Tilburg School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tilburg University, Tilburg, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | - Hans Kroon
- Tranzo - Tilburg School of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tilburg University, Tilburg, The Netherlands
- Trimbos Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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ROCHEFORT DAVIDA. Innovation and Its Discontents: Pathways and Barriers in the Diffusion of Assertive Community Treatment. Milbank Q 2019; 97:1151-1199. [PMID: 31680353 PMCID: PMC6904263 DOI: 10.1111/1468-0009.12429] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Policy Points Widespread diffusion of policy innovation is the exception rather than the rule, depending as it does on the convergence of a variety of intellectual, political, economic, and organizational forces. The history of Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) provides a compelling case study of this process while also showing how conditions may shift over time, altering the scenarios for continued program expansion. Diffusion of a program like ACT challenges government to play a nuanced role in which public endorsement and resources are used to strengthen a worthwhile service, but without suppressing flexibility and ongoing experimentation as core program values. Acceptance as a proven form of "evidence-based practice" is a critical element in the validation of ACT and other community mental health interventions that combine clinical and social features in novel ways. However, the use of conventional evidence-based research as a singular gold standard of program value narrows the range of stakeholder input, as well as the evaluation methodologies and forms of data deemed worthy of attention. CONTEXT Originating at the county level in Wisconsin in the early 1970s, Assertive Community Treatment is one of the most influential mental health programs ever developed. The subject of hundreds of research studies and recipient of enthusiastic backing from private advocacy organizations and government agencies, the program has spread widely across the United States and internationally as a package of resources and management techniques for supporting individuals with severe and chronic mental illness in the community. Today, however, ACT is associated with a rising tide of criticism challenging the program's practices and philosophy while alternative service models are advancing. METHODS To trace the history of the Assertive Community Treatment movement, a diffusion-of-innovation framework was applied based on relevant concepts from public policy analysis, organizational behavior, implementation science, and other fields. In-depth review of the literature on ACT design, management, and performance also provided insight into the program's creation and subsequent evolution across different settings. FINDINGS A number of factors have functioned to fuel and to constrain ACT diffusion. The former category includes policy learning through research; the role of policy entrepreneurs; ACT's acceptance as a normative standard; and a thriving international epistemic community. The latter category includes cost concerns, fidelity demands, shifting norms, research contradictions and gaps, and a multifactorial context affecting program adoption. Currently, the program stands at a crossroads, strained by the principle of adherence to a long-standing operational framework, on the one hand, and calls to adjust to an environment of changing demands and opportunities, on the other. CONCLUSIONS For nearly 50 years, Assertive Community Treatment has been a mainstay of community mental health programming in the United States and other parts of the world. This presence will continue, but not in any static sense. A growing number of hybrid and competing versions of the program are likely to develop to serve specialized clientele groups and to respond to consumer demands and the recovery paradigm in behavioral health care.
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Tjaden CD, Mulder CL, van Weeghel J, Delespaul P, Keet R, Castelein S, Boumans J, Leeman E, Malm U, Kroon H. The resource group method in severe mental illness: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial and a qualitative multiple case study. Int J Ment Health Syst 2019; 13:15. [PMID: 30949233 PMCID: PMC6429834 DOI: 10.1186/s13033-019-0270-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2018] [Accepted: 03/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The resource group method provides a structure to facilitate patients' empowerment and recovery processes, and to systematically engage significant others in treatment and care. A patient chooses members of a resource group (RG) that will work together on fulfilling patients' recovery plan. By adopting shared decision-making processes and stimulating collaboration of different support systems, a broad and continuous support of patients' chosen goals and wishes is preserved and problem solving and communication skills of the RG members are addressed. OBJECTIVE The objectives of this study are (1) to establish the effectiveness of the RG method in increasing empowerment in patients with severe mental illnesses (SMI) in the Netherlands; (2) to investigate the cost-effectiveness and cost utility of the RG method; and (3) to qualitatively explore its dynamics and processes. METHODS/DESIGN This multisite randomized controlled trial will compare the effects of the RG-method integrated in Flexible Assertive Community Treatment (FACT) (90 patients) with those of standard FACT (90 patients). Baseline assessments and 9-month and 18-month follow-up assessments will be conducted in face-to-face home visits. The primary outcome measure, empowerment, will be assessed using the Netherlands Empowerment List (NEL). The secondary outcomes will be quality of life (MANSA); personal, community and clinical recovery (I.ROC); general, social and community functioning (WHODAS 2.0); general psychopathological signs and symptoms (BSI-18); and societal costs (TiC-P). An economic evaluation of the cost-effectiveness and cost utility of the RG method will also be conducted. A qualitative multiple case-study will be added to collect patients', RG members' and professionals' perspectives by in-depth interviews, observations and focus groups. DISCUSSION This trial will be the first to study the effects of the RG method on empowerment in patients with SMI. By combining clinical-effectiveness data with an economic evaluation and in-depth qualitative information from primary stakeholders, it will provide a detailed overview of the RG method as a mean of improving care for patients with SMI.Trial registration The study has been registered in the Dutch Trial Register, identifier: NTR6737, September 2017.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cathelijn D. Tjaden
- Department of Reintegration and Community Care, Trimbos Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tranzo Scientific Center for Care and Welfare, Tilburg University, Tilburg, The Netherlands
| | - Cornelis L. Mulder
- Department of Psychiatry, Erasmus Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Antes, Parnassia Psychiatric Institute, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jaap van Weeghel
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tranzo Scientific Center for Care and Welfare, Tilburg University, Tilburg, The Netherlands
- Phrenos Centre of Expertise, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Philippe Delespaul
- School of Mental Health and NeuroSciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Mondriaan Mental Health Trust, Maastricht/Heerlen, The Netherlands
| | - Rene Keet
- Department of Community Mental Health, GGZ Noord-Holland-Noord, Heiloo, The Netherlands
| | - Stynke Castelein
- Lentis Research, Lentis Psychiatric Institute, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Department of Clinical Psychology and Experimental Psychopathology, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
- Rob Giel Research Center, University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Jenny Boumans
- Department of Reintegration and Community Care, Trimbos Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tranzo Scientific Center for Care and Welfare, Tilburg University, Tilburg, The Netherlands
| | - Eva Leeman
- Antes, Parnassia Psychiatric Institute, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ulf Malm
- Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Hans Kroon
- Department of Reintegration and Community Care, Trimbos Institute, Utrecht, The Netherlands
- Department of Social and Behavioral Sciences, Tranzo Scientific Center for Care and Welfare, Tilburg University, Tilburg, The Netherlands
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Mustafa FA. High mortality rate in people with severe mental disorders after discharge from assertive community treatment. Perspect Psychiatr Care 2019; 55:40-41. [PMID: 29687458 DOI: 10.1111/ppc.12281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2018] [Revised: 03/18/2018] [Accepted: 03/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
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