State Department and Provider Agency Utilization of Evidence-Based Program Registries in Behavioral Healthcare and...

Area of Science:

• Health Services Research
• Behavioral Health
• Program Evaluation

Background:

• Evidence-based program registries (EBPRs) compile research-based interventions for behavioral healthcare.
• These registries aim to support programmatic decision-making by rating intervention efficacy.
• Understanding decision-maker access and utilization of EBPRs is crucial for effective dissemination.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the extent to which behavioral health decision-makers access EBPRs.
• To understand how decision-makers use information from EBPRs.
• To identify barriers and facilitators in the use of EBPRs for program selection and implementation.

Main Methods:

• National survey of 375 senior staff from Single State Authorities and service provider agencies.
• Telephone interviews conducted regarding EBPR visits, information sought, and utilization.
• Data collected on the use of information for organizational changes and program adoption.

Main Results:

• 80% of respondents accessed at least one EBPR, with a median of three registries visited.
• 55% found all desired information; others sought implementation guidance or struggled to locate specific programs.
• 65% used EBPR information to select, initiate, or modify programs, supporting evidence-based practices.

Conclusions:

• EBPRs are vital for disseminating program effectiveness data and promoting evidence-based practices.
• Increased awareness of EBPRs is needed.
• Further attention to supporting the implementation of specific recommended programs and practices is required.