Implementation coaching is divided into two phases.
Pre-launch coaching phase typically lasts for 3-4 months and focuses on developing the systems and processes needed for program implementation. This consists of monthly calls that walk clinic leaders through steps that prepare the organization for their program's launch and sustainment. Pre-launch training for the clinical team typically occurs in the month immediately prior to program launch.
Post-launch implementation coaching typically lasts 12 months and focuses on identifying and resolving implementation challenges by using evidence-based metrics and practice-based benchmarks. The specific configuration of services is customized to meet the needs of each implementing organization. A peer-reviewed paper published in 2020 showed that clinics receiving this implementation support had better patient-level clinical outcomes as compared with clinics that did not receive this support.
Our highly experienced clinical trainers work with primary care and behavioral health providers to prepare them for integration.
Online Training prepares all three members of the Collaborative Car team - Primary Care Providers (PCP), Behavioral Health Care Managers (BHCM), and Psychiatric Consultants - to work together in a way that doubles the effectiveness of care. Training for BHCMs is available on our website. Core training for the PCP and Psychiatric Consultants can be obtained from the APA, while advanced training is available through the AIMS Center for organizations that have an implementation contract with us.
Team Skills Training builds on the online training. This is two live virtual skills-based trainings that include BHCMs, psychiatric consultants, and the PCP champion (typically the PCP champion rather than all PCPs participate, and the champion flows down their learning to their colleagues). Each component is 2.5 hours in length. The first component focuses on communication with patients and each other as well as how to troubleshoot common implementation challenges. The second component focuses on skills/best practices for weekly systematic caseload review sessions.
BHCM Advanced Skills Series supports BHCMs as they delve deeper into the clinical skills necessary to manage a wide range of behavioral health concerns by receiving training on specific, focused topics. Typically this is a 6-9 month program consisting of monthly sessions on various topics, including patient engagement, working effectively with your Psychiatric Consultant, relapse prevention planning, brief visits and concurrent documentation, supporting medication management, and challenging clinical situations.
Behavioral Treatments that are designed for primary care are brief, structured, and evidence-based. We provide training in Behavioral Activation and Problem Solving Treatment to support this important aspect of the BHCM role.
We offer program evaluation support for organizations that want to use their data to evaluate their Collaborative Care program. The AIMS Center has faculty with expertise in research and program evaluation who can consult with organizations about how to set up an evaluation and use the data for their own internal purposes or to publish it.