Clinical transformation: Manager's perspectives on implementation of evidence-based practice

Area of Science:

• Mental Health Services Research
• Implementation Science
• Child and Adolescent Psychology

Background:

• Evidence-based practices (EBPs) are crucial for improving mental health service quality.
• Successful implementation of EBPs in child and youth mental health settings remains a challenge.
• The National Implementation Research Network (NIRN) model provides a framework for EBP implementation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the process of implementing an EBP in a child and youth mental health organization.
• To explore the experiences of behavioral healthcare managers during an organizational change process.
• To refine the NIRN implementation model based on real-world application.

Main Methods:

• A single case study design was employed.
• Qualitative methods were used to gather data over a 3-year period.
• The study focused on the perspective of behavioral healthcare managers.

Main Results:

• Dedicated management oversight and implementation teams are critical for successful EBP adoption.
• Practice leads and practice coaches emerged as valuable implementation innovations.
• Organizations implementing multiple EBPs concurrently need to monitor and manage their absorptive capacity.

Conclusions:

• Findings support and refine the NIRN implementation model.
• Dedicated leadership and specialized roles enhance EBP implementation.
• Managing organizational capacity is vital for sustained EBP integration in child and youth mental health care.