Using a Patient-Centered, Educational Approach to Support Patients with Mental Health Conditions in Adherence to Prescribed Interventions

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose of this quality improvement (QI) project was to present a patient follow-up protocol to an outpatient mental health clinic in southern Arizona. Background: Psychiatric illnesses affect approximately 450 million individuals globally, a growing mental health concern. There are several reasons why patients do not adhere to their prescribed care plans, which may adversely affect their mental and physical health. Patients may not only experience a reduction in their quality of life but they may also be affected financially, costing $3,252 to $19,363, annually per patient. One option for increasing patient adherence includes the incorporation of a systematic follow-up protocol. The follow-up protocol provided patients the opportunity to inquire and be further educated on their prescribed interventions, medications, and procedures. Methods: This QI project utilized the Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) model to incorporate a change proposal. The implemented change incorporated follow-up educational interactions with patients of Ketamine Wellness Center (KWC), seven days post-stabilization. Healthcare providers within KWC attended a one-hour in-service, educating them on the follow-up protocol process. Both quantitative and qualitative approaches were utilized in the analysis of follow-up protocol efficacy. Self-reported patient data was obtained post-intervention for analysis. Results: Six KWC staff participants attended the follow-up protocol in-service. Seven patient participants completed the post-follow-up interaction survey, upon completion of their stabilization series. Three potential participants had declined participation in the follow-up project, and one patient had agreed to participate but did not return to the clinic for his follow-up