Implementing program-wide awareness about recovery in a large mental health and addictions program

Area of Science:

• Mental Health Services Research
• Healthcare Management
• Addiction Treatment Models

Background:

• St. Joseph's Healthcare Hamilton initiated a plan to integrate a recovery-oriented service delivery approach within its Mental Health and Addictions Program.
• The first phase focused on building foundational awareness of recovery principles among leadership.

Purpose of the Study:

• To increase managers' understanding of recovery-oriented care.
• To identify and address managerial concerns regarding the recovery paradigm.
• To assess current service delivery against recovery-oriented principles.

Main Methods:

• A needs assessment survey was developed for managers and senior team members.
• Anthony's (2000) system standards were utilized to inform the assessment.
• The survey aimed to gauge awareness, concerns, and current practices related to recovery.

Main Results:

• The needs assessment served to raise awareness among managers about recovery-oriented care.
• It provided a platform for managers to voice concerns and critically evaluate service operations.
• Initiatives for program-wide awareness building were discussed.

Conclusions:

• The initial phase successfully engaged leadership in understanding and evaluating recovery-oriented practices.
• This foundational work is crucial for the successful implementation of a broader recovery-oriented service delivery approach.
• Further steps are necessary to fully integrate recovery principles across the program.