Research-Operational Partnerships in the Launch of a Hybrid Consumer-Operated Drop-In Center for Veterans

Area of Science:

• Implementation Science
• Community Psychology
• Veteran Health Services Research

Background:

• Veterans often face significant adversity, including homelessness and mental health issues.
• Community integration is crucial for veteran well-being and recovery.
• Existing support systems may not fully address the complex needs of all veterans.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the development and implementation of a hybrid consumer-operated peer center for veterans.
• To highlight the application of participatory implementation science principles in program design.
• To outline a framework for continuous quality improvement involving diverse stakeholders.

Main Methods:

• A steering committee with VA administrators, veteran leaders, contractors, and researchers guided the program.
• Participatory implementation science principles were employed.
• A program charter was codesigned, leading to iterative development of practices, metrics, and evaluation.

Main Results:

• The peer center was established as a hybrid consumer-operated drop-in model.
• A collaborative approach facilitated the co-design of program elements.
• An evaluation plan was developed with partner engagement for ongoing quality improvement.

Conclusions:

• Hybrid consumer-operated peer centers can effectively support veteran community integration.
• Participatory implementation science is a valuable framework for developing and refining veteran services.
• Engaging veterans and community partners is essential for successful program development and continuous improvement.