Enhancing Behavioral Health Workforce: Evaluating the Impact of an HRSA-Funded Interprofessional Training Initiative

Abstract: This research analyzes the outcomes of a federal training grant first awarded in 2017 by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) to address the shortage of behavioral health providers in the U.S. In response, a university-based initiative was launched to increase the number of diverse behavioral health providers capable of providing effective care to underserved communities. Supported by HRSA funding, this initiative provides financial assistance to selected students in their final year while enhancing interprofessional training to meet the needs of vulnerable populations in Southern California, with a focus on linguistically diverse families. In 2019, a second HRSA grant was obtained, specifically targeting the ongoing opioid crisis in the U.S. This additional funding expanded the initiative's scope and further enriched the academic experience of students in programs such as Marital and Family Therapy, Clinical Mental Health Counseling, School Counseling, and Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. These students receive specialized training in multicultural/linguistic competence, integrated behavioral health, and evidence-based practices. The project evaluation involves assessing students at different stages of their training, covering various aspects such as background information, previous experiences, interests in working with specific populations, knowledge of evidence-based practices, awareness of stigma, personal wellness considerations, and cultural humility. Following HRSA principles, a combination of qualitative and quantitative data is employed to ensure relevant and feasible assessment aligned with the project's implementation. The evaluation process encompasses formative assessments to track implementation progress and summative evaluations to measure the overall impact of the project. This reviews data from 2017 to present.Short Description: This research assesses the outcomes of an HRSA-funded initiatives launched in 2017 (to present) to increase diverse behavioral health providers addressing the shortage in the U.S. The initiative financially assists students in their final year, enhancing interprofessional training for underserved populations in Southern California, particularly Latinx families. Evaluation involves assessing students at different stages, considering background, experience, interests, evidence-based practices, stigma, wellness, and cultural humility. The evaluation follows HRSA principles, utilizing qualitative and quantitative data.Name of Sponsoring Organization(s):