Mixed Methods Evaluation of the "Train the Trainer" Model for Delivering Core "Making Every Contact Count" (MECC)...

Area of Science:

• Public Health Training and Implementation Science
• Health Promotion Program Evaluation
• Behavior Change Interventions

Background:

• The Making Every Contact Count (MECC) initiative promotes health and well-being through opportunistic, person-centered approaches.
• The Train the Trainer (TtT) model was implemented regionally to scale MECC training delivery.
• Evaluating the effectiveness of the TtT model is crucial for successful health promotion program dissemination.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the regional implementation of the MECC Train the Trainer (TtT) model.
• To identify barriers and facilitators to cascading MECC training post-TtT.
• To inform future strategies for optimizing MECC TtT program delivery and trainer support.

Main Methods:

• Mixed-methods evaluation incorporating pre- and post-training surveys.
• Qualitative semi-structured interviews analyzed using the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF).
• Content analysis of the MECC TtT program for behavior change techniques (BCTs) and intervention functions (IFs).

Main Results:

• Low reported cascade of core MECC training (4.4%) following TtT.
• MECC TtT significantly improved knowledge, but not confidence or motivation, to deliver training.
• Six TDF domains (Environmental Context/Resources, Knowledge, Social Influences, Beliefs about Consequences, Skills, Intentions) were key barriers/facilitators; TtT sufficiently addressed only 'Skills'.

Conclusions:

• Targeted recruitment for the MECC TtT program is essential, focusing on trainees with support, prior knowledge, and training experience.
• Current MECC TtT implementation shows limited cascade, indicating a need for enhanced support mechanisms for trainers.
• Future interventions should address identified TDF barriers to improve the successful dissemination of MECC training.