Evaluation of collaborative mental health services in Latin America: Theoretical and methodological basis

Approaches to collaborative mental health care (CMHC) have been implemented in many countries to strengthen the accessibility and delivery of mental health services in primary care. However, there are not well-defined frameworks to evaluate CMHC models. The purpose of this article is to identify, contextualize and discuss relevant health services research approaches, theory, and evaluation models for the development of an appropriate evaluation framework in order to foster effective CMHC in Latin America.

A comprehensive literature review informed a critical analysis of relevant theories and alternative methods to be considered in the development of the framework.

Specific health services research frameworks are discussed in the context of evaluating CMHC. Two theoretical perspectives - collaboration theory and systems theory - and three evaluation models- realistic, developmental and collaborative - are analyzed in terms of their relevance. Methodological implications are identified.

An appropriate evaluation framework for CMHC in Latin America needs to reflect theoretical and contextual considerations and relevant evaluation approaches and methods, including key dimensions and attributes/variables, core indicators, and recommendations for implementation.