Implementation Evaluation of an Online Peer-Mentor Training Program for Individuals With Spinal Cord Injury

Area of Science:

• Health Services Research
• Rehabilitation Science
• Knowledge Translation

Background:

• Community-based spinal cord injury (SCI) associations are vital for integrating individuals with SCI.
• Knowledge translation is crucial for effective SCI support services.
• An online peer-mentor training program aimed to standardize and improve training practices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the implementation context of an online peer-mentor training program.
• To identify barriers and facilitators influencing the program's implementation.
• To measure the program's impact on service delivery and peer mentors.

Main Methods:

• Sequential cross-sectional design involving SCI Canada provincial member associations.
• Utilized Evidence-Based Practice Attitude Scale and Organizational Readiness to Change Assessment.
• Employed an open-ended questionnaire (Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research) and a pre-post design (Determinants of Implementation Behavior Questionnaire).

Main Results:

• Positive attitudes towards evidence-based practice and organizational readiness for change were reported.
• Program relevance was a facilitator, aligning with organizational mission and values.
• Resource scarcity (financial and human) emerged as a significant obstacle.

Conclusions:

• Provincial SCI associations offer a supportive context for implementing evidence-based practices.
• Successful rollout of online peer-mentor training necessitates dedicated financial and human resources.
• Addressing resource constraints is key for effective knowledge translation in SCI community programs.