Combining Evidence-Based Practice with Stakeholder Consensus to Enhance Psychosocial Rehabilitation Services in the Texas Benefit Design Initiative.

Abstract

This article describes the use of evidence-based practice along with a multi-stakeholder consensus process to design the psychosocial rehabilitation components in a benefit package of publicly funded mental health services in Texas. The Texas Benefit Design initiative demonstrates how the combination of science and consensus can be used as a powerful tool for change. It applies the findings of rigorous research regarding psychosocial rehabilitation service delivery approaches that achieve positive outcomes in real world, community settings. At the same time, it makes use of the unique knowledge and experience that mental health service consumers, providers and other advocates can bring to service system design and planning.

Examining the Effectiveness of Integrated Behavioral and Primary Health Care Treatment

“…Initially, standardized treatment protocols may have been designed to create stability across facets of client holistic functioning. In 2004, Texas revamped its previous system of treatment delivery by implementing a standardized assessment to identify services that would address individuals’ needs (Cook, Toprac, & Shore, ). Often, the first line of defense is medication management and case coordination for individuals diagnosed with SMI (Lopez & Basco, ), suggesting the intent of community mental health treatment, at least for those involved in the standardized treatment protocol, is to ensure stability of clients’ symptoms while navigating the complexities associated with SMI.…”

Preparing to Implement Medication Algorithms: Staff Perspectives and System Infrastructure

“…It is also important for policy makers to provide ample opportunity for practitioners to have input into the development and implementation of the state's application of medication algorithms. Genuine and meaningful inclusion of consumers can also strengthen endorsement and improve implementation 5,20,21. Similarly, ensuring communication and cooperation between inpatient and outpatient programs that share many of the same patients would be beneficial.…”

Effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in Public Mental Health: Comparison to Treatment as Usual for Treatment-Resistant Depression

“…LMHAs are governmental entities charged with the provision of an array of mental health services to qualifying individuals within the authority’s catchment area. In 2004, Texas undertook a comprehensive redesign of the service system focused on using a standardized assessment process to identify the evidence-based services and supports that would be most likely to meet an individual’s recovery needs (Cook, Toprac, & Shore, 2004). Adults who enter services receive a diagnostic interview, a symptom-based assessment, and a measure of functioning across life domains.…”