Health literacy training: A model for effective implementation and sustainability.

OBJECTIVE

Training the mental health workforce to provide health promotion and support to people using their services to manage comorbid conditions is essential if full integration of physical and mental health is to become a reality. We document how a training model was explicitly designed to extend curricula beyond the classroom in order to increase the frequency and quality of physical health interventions. We also show how implementation was supported by a strong project structure and a facilitative administration.

METHOD

This article was informed by the workforce development literature, process observations, and key informant interviews.

RESULTS

Passive dissemination cannot change practice. Buy-in and commitment from agency leaders facilitates collaboration between consultant-trainers and trainees. Organizations with strong implementation structures help ensure training uptake.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

When contracting with trainers, ensure that they understand the need for and are willing to commit to sustainability. Additionally, organizations will benefit by using lessons from implementation science when approaching workforce.