National integration of mental health screening and treatment into
specialized care for cystic fibrosis: What predicts success?
Abstract
Objectives: The CF Foundation sponsored competitive awards for
Mental Health Coordinators (MHCs) from 2016-2018 to implement the
international guidelines for mental health screening and treatment in US
CF centers. Longitudinal surveys evaluated success in implementing these
guidelines using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research
(CFIR). Methods: MHCs completed annual surveys assessing
implementation from Preparation/Basic Implementation (e.g., using
recommended screeners) to Full Implementation/Sustainability (e.g.,
providing evidence-based treatments). Points were assigned to questions
through consensus, with higher scores assigned to more complex tasks.
Linear regression and mixed effects models were used to: 1) examine
differences in centers and MHC characteristics, 2) identify predictors
of success, 3) model the longitudinal trajectory of implementation
scores. Results: 122 MHCs (88.4% responded): Cohort 1
N=80, Cohort 2 N=30, Cohort 3 N=12. No differences in
center characteristics were found. Significant improvements in
implementation were observed across centers over time. Years of
experience on a CF team was the only significant predictor of success;
those with 1-5 years or longer reported the highest implementation
scores. Change over time was predicted by >5 years of
experience. Conclusions: Implementation of the mental health
guidelines was highly successful over time. Funding for MHCs with
dedicated time was critical. Longitudinal modeling indicated that CF
centers with diverse characteristics could implement them, supported by
evidence from the CF Patient Registry showing nearly universal uptake of
mental health screening in the US. Years of experience predicted better
implementation, suggesting that education and training of MHCs and
retention of experienced providers are critical to success.