Date of Publication
2023
Abstract
Background: Mental healthcare has become a top priority in Northwest Vermont. However, capacity issues and other barriers limit access to appropriate and timely services. We developed a Sequential Intercept Model (SIM) map to allow stakeholders to understand how individuals from Chittenden County move through the continuum of the mental health system at individual, community, and institutional levels. This map is intended to help community leaders identify pinch points in the system and the changes needed for the greatest impact.
Methods: The SIM map was created by using preexisting literature, mental health models, and stakeholder feedback. A participant interview guide was developed, and qualitative methods were used to conduct thematic analysis. Participants were recruited from the United Way Mental Health Initiative.
Results: Thematic analysis revealed that major issues include addressing varying social risk factors and lack of accessibility to timely care and support. Individuals may get stuck at an intercept or not qualify for services due to social or organizational inadequacies.
Conclusion: Although the SIM map provides a framework for the state of the mental health system in Vermont, systemic and social changes are crucial for improving the health and well-being of those with mental health needs. The Mental Health Initiative intends to use this map to help community leaders identify pinch points in the system and implement the changes that will have the greatest impact.
Advisor(s)
Tom Delaney, PhD
Larner College of Medicine, University of Vermont
Steven Berbeco, EdD
Community Agency Mentor
Adrienne Lueders-Dumont
Community Agency Mentor
J. Smith
Community Agency Mentor
Subjects
Access to Health Services, Health Care Access and Quality, Health Communication and Health Information Technology, Mental Health and Mental Disorders, Preventive Care, Public Health Infrastructure, Social Determinants of Health, Social and Community Context
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial 3.0 License
Recommended Citation
Adelman, Julie; Bleau, Jake; Doshi, Jeyna; Hebert, Devin; Khadka, Angela; Legore, Shani S.; and Trus, Ryan, "United Way of Northwest Vermont- Mental Health Initiative" (2023). Public Health Projects, 2008-present. 346.
https://scholarworks.uvm.edu/comphp_gallery/346
