Application of the Non-adoption, Abandonment, Scale-up, Spread and, Sustainability (NASSS) Framework to evaluate the role of technology in the Pathways to Comorbidity Care (PCC) implementation project to improve management of comorbid substance use and mental disorders
Abstract (250 words)In substance use treatment settings, there is a high prevalence of comorbid mental health problems. Yet an integrated approach for managing comorbidity, implementation of evidence-based intervention in drug and alcohol settings remains problematic. Technology can help the adoption of evidence-based practice and successfully implement effective treatment health care pathways. This study sought to examine aspects of electronic resources utilisation (barriers and facilitators) by clinicians participating in the PCC training. MethodA self-report questionnaire and a semi-structured interview was designed to measure overall satisfaction with the PCC portal and e-resources available throughout the 9-month intervention for participating clinicians. An adapted version of the ‘Non-adoption, Abandonment, Scale-up, Spread and, Sustainability’ (NASSS) framework was used to facilitate discussion in regards to the study findings. ResultsA total of 20 clinicians from drug and alcohol services responded to all the measures. Facilitators of portal use included: i. clinician acceptance of the PCC portal; ii. guidance from the clinical supervisor or clinical champion that encouraged the use of e-resources. Some of the barriers included: i. complexity of the illness (condition), ii. clinicians’ preference (adopter system) for face-to-face resources and training modes (e.g. clinical supervision, clinical champion workshops), and iii. lack of face-to-face training on how to use the portal (technology and organisation).ConclusionBased on the NASSS framework, we were able to identify several barriers and facilitators including such as the complexity of the illness, lack of face-to-face training and clinician preference for training mediums. Recommendations include ongoing consultation of clinicians to assist in the development of tailored e-health resources and offering in-house training on how to operate and effectively utilise these resources.