Policy Implications
All our research is done in a real-world context to immediately inform policy and practice.
Our current work supports these policy implications, which address the three largest barriers to families accessing child behavior support - lack of funding, lack of availability of evidence-based programs, and stigma.
Make parent-focused child behavior support programs reimbursable by insurance without copay
"Under the ACA, family-focused preventive services could be reimbursed by insurance without copay if the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force determines that 'there is high certainty that the net benefit is substantial' or 'there is high certainty that the net benefit is moderate or there is moderate certainty that the net benefit is moderate to substantial.'" -Leslie, Mehus, Hawkins et al., 2016
There is already strong evidence of benefit within well-controlled experimental trials in primary pediatric care settings (Perrin et al.). However, additional rigorous studies that demonstrate effective models based in primary care likely will be needed to gain U.S. Preventive Services Task Force approval. Our clinical trials aim to add further evidence to support the U.S. Preventative Services Task Force decision.
Support funding of staff training in evidence-based child behavior support programs
Evidence-based child behavior support programs have documented positive effects for children and parents alike, and in some rigorous programs, these effects grow over time and continue into the next generation. The training required for interventions with this level of effect is substantial, and requires funding for both the training and to cover staff time. We aim to document the return on investment of these trainings to support future funding.
Implement training for clinicians in effectively motivating parents to seek support
Primary care clinics are frequently accessed and trusted settings and could be the ideal setting to connect families to parent support programs. However, primary care personnel are not trained to address behavioral health or parenting topics and pediatric referrals are often not made or completed. We are currently documenting the acceptability, feasibility, and effectiveness of a brief communication training for clinicians, to support future implementation of trainings that will increase clinicians' confidence in making referrals and increase parent engagement and referral completion.
Reduce the administrative burden for clinicians and therapists in referral procedures
Our consultation with clinicians during pilot studies suggests that every additional administrative hurdle during the referral process reduces the likelihood of a successful referral. We are currently planning research to compare referral process methods that reduce the burden on clinicians and therapists, and measure the impact on referral completion and family outcomes. This research will support wider-spread implementation of measures that reduce administrative burdens.
