Suchergebnisse

Ethical standards and issues associated with the access and use of state Medicaid administrative data for research purposes from the data owners' perspective (i.e., state Medicaid authorities) were examined. Key informants at Medicaid authorities were surveyed regarding their states' policies and procedures related to the access and use of Medicaid data for research purposes. Results indicate that although a majority of states permit the use of Medicaid data by independent investigators for research purposes (74%), there is substantial variability across states in both the frequency with which access is granted as well as with the policies and procedures governing the access to these data. Literature on existing "best practices" by data owners regarding the use of administrative data in research is combined with survey findings to add the discussion in this highly important area and proposed guiding principles for administrative data owners and custodians are offered.

Emerging adults discontinue behavioral health treatment at rates ranging from 30% to 50%. This study explored dropout using semi-structured interviews ( N = 20). Participants were engaged in a group therapy program, Healthy Transitions. Findings revealed the lack of therapeutic relationship and logistical issues such as cost, transportation, and conflicting work schedules contributed to dropout. Participants indicated that alleviating logistical barriers and feeling a connection to their peers and group leader prevented dropout. This program was free, transportation was provided, and sessions were in the evening. Participants expressed peer educators made them feel less judged and/or stigmatized than a one-on-one therapy appointment. These findings reinforce logistical issues and lack of a therapeutic relationship contribute to dropout and highlight the benefits of flexible scheduling and reinforce the importance of a therapeutic relationship in preventing dropout.