Evidence-Based Methodology

Summary

Social Network Health approaches require an ongoing commitment to follow documented evidence of impact by studying research and implementation in the field of preventative mental health care.

Google doc comment with Peter and Tim

References and Notes

Effect of the Wingman-Connect Upstream Suicide Prevention Program for Air Force Personnel in Training.  A Cluster Randomized Clinical Trial

JAMA Open Network, October, 2020

Research Outcomes – Evidence Based Key Findings include:

• Increased class cohesion, morale, positive bonds, and acceptability of help seeking
• Reduction in suicide risks scores, depression, and reactivity to anger
• Nearly 50% reduction in occupational impairment (corrective training, negative counseling)

Measurable Impact on both Protective Factors and Risk Factors

Wingman-Connect was tested using the gold-standard research design with Airmen in Training from 2017-2019 (randomized controlled trial).  Training showed statistically significant increases in group and individual level protective factors, as well as reductions in negative outcomes including and depression and suicide risk.  

Social Science & Medicine                     Social Science & Medicine 296 (2022) 114737

Wingman-Connect Program increases social integration for Air Force personnel at elevated suicide risk: Social network analysis of a cluster RCT

The current attention on the detection and treatment of suicidal military members is necessary, but ultimately insufficient to meet the needs of many suicidal service members. Results from our study suggest that the status quo progression for many service members at elevated suicide risk is one of worsening disconnection, evidenced by the trajectory of declining valued connections found in the active control condition.

Evidence based practice is defined as a deliberate and conscientious approach to problems olving within clinical practice. An evidence-based approach embodies the best evidence from well designed studies while taking into consideration patient values, preferences, and a clinician’s expertise in making decisions regarding patient’s care (Melnyk and Fineout-Overholt, 2019).

Melnyk et al. (2012) describes evidence based practice (EBP) as a clinical decision-making tool that improves clinical outcomes. EBP has a proven track record of improving quality of care and patient outcomes (McGinty and Anderson, 2008). Evidence-based practice as a problem-solving approach fits with Institute of Medicine (IOM) recommendations that all health professionals translate the research into practice (Institute of Medicine, 2003).

It is also important for faculty to incorporate quality improvement and evidence-based practice in the facilitation, evaluation, and redesign of curriculum. Knowledge gained from quality improvement initiatives and evidence-based assessments of teaching allow for informed decisions that are based on quantitative and qualitative data thus providing a better assessment of teaching effectiveness and will serve as a consistent guide for improvement and a measure of teaching success.

McNeill, C., George, N., Stephens, U., & Walker, T. (2024). Teaching Evidence-Based Practice to MSN, DNP and PhD students: Lessons Learned. ABNFF Journal, 1(1), 53–60.

This is where the book ends maturity model, pre and post should go.

PBIS:

Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) is a widely implemented framework for promoting positive school systems and fostering students' social, emotional, behavioral, and mental health.

https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/5d3725188825e071f1670246/651c4d7d5174726ec6da1d86_Is%20Positive%20Behavioral%20Interventions%20and%20Supports%20(PBIS)%20an%20Evidence-Based%20Practice.pdf