Use of Evidence-Based Technology to Assist the Behavioral Health Workforce

Abstract

This article provides examples of the application of technology transfer to improve the delivery of addiction prevention, treatment, and recovery. The article describes a case example of two regional Technology Transfer Centers (TTCs) focused on addiction and mental health. It illustrates the importance of cross-regional and network-wide activities as well as meaningful collaborations with other regional networks, professional associations, and state and federal entities. This article describes a model of identifying and delivering meaningful training and technical assistance (T/TA), which also advances interprofessional collaborations and shared ownership. The described model includes collaboration in assessing behavioral health T/TA needs and preference for delivery of T/TA. The case study presents the process of engaging providers and connecting them with content experts on emerging topics in the field of addiction. This work included T/TA around integrated care, co-occurring disorders, cultural humility and inclusion, and use of data to advance system care. The case also outlines the application and use of evidence-based translation models, including Project ECHO (Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes) and Communities of Practice.

Continuous Quality Improvement in the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration's Technology Transfer Center Network: A Process Evaluation

“…The TTC Network consists of 39 centers in the US—10 regional centers and two national focus area centers in each of the practice domains of addiction treatment (ATTCs), mental health treatment (MHTTCs), and substance use prevention (PTTCs), plus one Network Coordinating Office (NCO) in each domain (SAMHSA, 2023). These centers represent one of the ways the US Department of Health and Human Services equips the behavioral health and primary healthcare workforces with the evidence-based and promising practices (EBPs), approaches to implementation of EBPs, and resources (e.g., training and capacity-building) needed to address prevention, treatment, and recovery for mental health and substance use (e.g., Allen, 2021; Gotham et al, 2022; Heitkamp et al, 2021). The ATTC network was established in 1993, then the entire TTC system was reconceptualized and expanded with the founding in 2018 of analogous MHTTC and PTTC Networks.…”