Implementation Fidelity of a Virtual Adaptation of the Guiding Good Choices Program

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Family Studies
• Digital Health

Background:

• Virtual delivery of evidence-based parenting interventions can expand reach.
• Implementation fidelity is crucial for program success in virtual settings.
• The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of virtual health services.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the implementation fidelity of a virtual adaptation of the Guiding Good Choices parenting program.
• To assess key fidelity components including attendance, dosage, adherence, quality of delivery, and participant engagement.
• To evaluate the feasibility of delivering virtual parenting interventions in primary care.

Main Methods:

• A virtual adaptation of the Guiding Good Choices program was delivered to 292 families across three healthcare systems.
• Implementation fidelity was assessed using interventionist and observer surveys, attendance records, and focus groups.
• Quantitative and qualitative data were collected to evaluate fidelity metrics.

Main Results:

• Interventionists and observers reported high levels of dosage, adherence, and quality of delivery.
• High participant engagement was observed across the virtual intervention.
• Participant attendance was lower than anticipated, indicating a potential challenge in retention.

Conclusions:

• Delivering virtual parenting programs in primary care with high implementation fidelity is feasible.
• Participant retention may be a significant challenge for virtual parenting interventions, especially during crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Further research is needed to optimize engagement and attendance in remote parenting support.