Measuring and Predicting Service Providers' Use of an Evidence-Based Parenting Program

Area of Science:

• Implementation Science
• Healthcare Services Research
• Program Evaluation

Background:

• Evidence-based programs (EBPs) are crucial for improving healthcare outcomes.
• Understanding factors influencing EBP adoption by service providers is essential for effective implementation.
• Previous research often focused on single indicators of program usage.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify predictors of service providers' utilization of a multi-level evidence-based program (EBP).
• To explore the relationship between provider characteristics, training, and EBP usage.
• To examine the influence of the provider's community context on EBP adoption.

Main Methods:

• A study involving 92 trained service providers who adopted a multi-level EBP.
• Development of a multidimensional index of usage (MUI) using three indicators.
• Statistical analysis to determine predictors of EBP usage amount.

Main Results:

• 72.8% of providers (67 out of 92) used the EBP at least once.
• Higher provider self-efficacy and greater amount of training predicted increased EBP usage.
• The provider's community context was also significantly associated with the amount of EBP usage.

Conclusions:

• Provider self-efficacy and training are key determinants of EBP utilization.
• Broader contextual factors, such as the provider's community, also play a significant role in implementation.
• Future implementation research should consider multiple usage indicators and both individual and contextual variables.