Feasibility of Group-Based Implementation Facilitation for Video Telemental Health

Area of Science:

• Health Services Research
• Telemedicine
• Mental Health Services

Background:

• Video telehealth, including VA Video Connect (VVC), rapidly expanded during the COVID-19 pandemic, especially in mental health.
• Implementing VVC requires training, equipment access, and cultural integration.
• Traditional one-on-one implementation facilitation (IF) was effective but limited in reach.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a group facilitation approach for VVC implementation.
• To rapidly disseminate VVC knowledge and skills to clinical teams.
• To enhance the sustainability of video telemental health services.

Main Methods:

• A group facilitation model was developed, combining VVC technical/policy training with IF.
• This approach engaged groups of providers from clinic units.
• Participant feedback was collected via surveys and interviews.

Main Results:

• 26 participants reported high satisfaction and confidence in using VVC.
• Providers and clinic leaders were satisfied with the group facilitation method.
• The approach facilitated rapid dissemination and collaborative problem-solving.

Conclusions:

• Group facilitation is a viable strategy for rapidly training clinical teams in video telemental health.
• This method can effectively improve the implementation and sustainability of VVC.
• Group facilitation offers a scalable solution for expanding telehealth services.