Scaling Up Task‐Shared Depression Care in Texas: Evaluating the Preliminary Effectiveness and Acceptability of a Digital Program for Training Non‐Specialist Providers

Sarah Taha · Natali Carmio · Vikram Patel · Katherine Sanchez · John A. Naslund

7 citations0/0 files storedPsychiatric Research and Clinical Practice

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Digital Mental Health Interventions Mental Health Treatment and Access Health Policy Implementation Science

Abstract

Objective Digital technologies hold promise for building capacity of non-specialist providers to scale-up access to depression care. This study evaluated the preliminary effectiveness and acceptability of a digital program to train non-specialists in the delivery of an evidence-based behavioral activation (BA) intervention for depression. Methods Non-specialist providers without prior mental health counseling experience employed within the Baylor Scott & White Health system in Texas were recruited to complete a two-course digital training, and knowledge assessments—at baseline and follow up—to determine preliminary effectiveness. Acceptability and feasability were assessed through focus groups. Results Of 73 non-specialist providers enrolled in the program, 42 completed both courses. Intent-to-treat analysis showed pre-post improvement in knowledge assessment scores (mean difference = 5.4; 95% CI: 1.6, 9.2; t(53) = 2.87, p = 0.006). Subgroup analyses demonstrated that participants who fully completed the training had pre-post improvement in knowledge scores (mean difference = 6.8; 95% CI = 2.8, 10.8; t(39) = 3.46, p = 0.001), whereas those who did not start or who only partially completed the training did not show improved knowledge scores. Framework analysis of the focus groups revealed four themes: training program evaluation, participant feedback and improvements, communication strategies, and support and resources. Conclusions This digital program shows potential for building skills and knowledge of non-specialist providers in delivering BA. Continued efforts are needed to support these providers in practice, and ensure quality through supervision. Relevance to Clinical Practice The program offers a scalable solution to expanding the behavioral health workforce, representing an opportunity to overcome the significant mental health workforce shortages and ensuring access to quality mental health services.

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2026Effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of digital approaches for training frontline health workers in depression care: a randomized controlled trial 2026Evaluating the costs of developing a digital supervision tool for task-shared depression care: findings from a multi-site study in India

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