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An Integrated and Recovery-Oriented Model of Care for People with Concurrent Disorders—Delphi study
People with concurrent mental health and substance use disorders have to navigate a fragmented, uncoordinated system of care. Despite evidence that individuals with a single diagnosis are a clinical minority, integrated management approaches are rare in the current health system. A research team at Providence Health Care conducted a Delphi study to understand which features are most important to include in an integrated and recovery-oriented model of care. They engaged people who have experienced care for mental health and substance use, health care providers, and health researchers in a consensus-based priority-setting activity. Based on participants’ responses, the research team identified 5 guiding principles and51 indicators across 7 core domains, including person-centred care, screening and assessment, health equity, education, and workforce development. This webinar will present the results of this study, including (a) a description of the full model, including domains and indicators, and (b) participants’ qualitative responses to the Delphi questionnaires, which identify existing barriers to integrated, recovery-oriented care and suggest ways to address those barriers. Collectively these findings may be used to guide health care providers and policymakers in implementing an integrated and recovery-oriented model of care for people with a concurrent disorder.
Presenters
Angela Russolillo, PhD, an assistant professor in the School of Nursing at UBC and the Director of Mental Health Clinical Research in the Mental Health Program and Department of Psychiatry at Providence Health Care. Her research aims to reduce disparities in mental health and substance use treatment through health services reform, advocacy, and the integration of evidence-based practices.
Anja Lanz is a dedicated patient advocate, advisor, and caregiver to an individual experiencing a recurring concurrent disorder. Through this role, she witnesses firsthand the gaps in the healthcare system when addressing concurrent disorders, particularly the need for increased education, compassion, and holistic care. Navigating these challenges as a caregiver has equipped her with valuable insights and patient-centered solutions that emphasize empathy and effective care approaches. Anja remains a strong advocate for integrating more patient voices into medical models, ensuring care strategies reflect lived experiences and address systemic shortcomings.