Implementation of Online SuicideSpecific Training

Authors: Elizabeth Marshall Janet York Kathryn Magruder Derik Yeager Rebecca Knapp Mark L De Santis Louisa Burriss Mary Mauldin Stan Sulkowski Charlene Pope David A Jobes

Publish Date: 2014/02/22

Volume: 38, Issue: 5, Pages: 566-574

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Abstract

Due to the gap in suicidespecific intervention training for mental health students and professionals elearning is one solution to improving provider skills in the Veterans Affairs VA health system This study focused on the development and evaluation of an equivalent elearning alternative to the Collaborative Assessment and Management of Suicidality CAMS inperson training approach at a Veteran Health Affairs medical centerThe study used a multicenter randomized cluster and three group design the development of eCAMS was an iterative process and included pilot testing Eligible and consenting mental health providers who completed a CAMS presurvey were randomized Provider satisfaction was assessed using the standard VA evaluation of training consisting of 20 items Two post training focus groups divided by learning conditions were conducted to assess practice adoption using a protocol focused on experiences with training and delivery of CAMSA total of 215 providers in five sites were randomized to three conditions 69 to elearning 70 to inperson 76 to the control The providers were primarily female Caucasian midlife providers Based on frequency scores of satisfaction items both learning groups rated the trainings positively In focus groups representing divided by learning conditions participants described positive reactions to CAMS training and similar individual and institutional barriers to full implementation of CAMSThis is the first evaluation study of a suicidespecific elearning training within the VA The eCAMS appears equivalent to the inperson CAMS in terms of provider satisfaction with training and practice adoption consistent with other comparisons of training deliveries across specialty areas Additional evaluation of provider confidence and adoption and patient outcomes is in progress The eCAMS has the potential to provide ongoing training for VA and military mental health providers and serve as a tutorial for psychiatrists in preparation for specialty boardsWe want to acknowledge the actors and script authors Keith Jennings Catholic University of America Delia Chariker VA SATC Addictioin Therapist David Koerner VA Social Worker Denise ONeil VA SATC Therapist Jeff Walker Veteran Jonathan Coutas Medical University of South Carolina Videographer and Dan Gross VA PsychologistThis material is based upon work supported by the Department of Veterans Affairs Veterans Health Administration Office of Research and Development Health Services Research and Development The study was approved by the joint University and VA IRB site and VA office of Research in the primary site and VA IRBs of the four satellite sites

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