Development and evaluation of an online infertility peer supporter training program. Issue 5 (May 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Grunberg, Paul H.; Dennis, Cindy-Lee; Da Costa, Deborah; Gagné, Karolanne; Idelson, Rachel; Zelkowitz, Phyllis
• Is Part Of: Patient education and counseling. Volume 103:Issue 5(2020)
• Page Start: 1005
• Page End: 1012
• Publication Date: 2020-05
• Subjects: Peer support -- Infertility -- Program evaluation -- eHealth -- mHealth -- Training; Patient education -- Periodicals; Health counseling -- Periodicals; Health education -- Periodicals; Counseling -- Periodicals; Patient Education -- Periodicals; Éducation des patients -- Périodiques; Counseling -- Périodiques; Éducation sanitaire -- Périodiques; 615.5071
• DOI: 10.1016/j.pec.2019.11.019
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0738-3991

Abstract

Highlights: The perspective of peer supporters was assessed to evaluate a peer support program. It is feasible to recruit and train infertility peer supporters online. The training manual, webinar, and practice questions were rated as helpful overall. Peer supporters are open to being monitored online to maintain forum safety. Peer supporters liked the accessibility and convenience of a mobile app. Abstract: Objective: To outline the development and evaluation of an online infertility peer supporter training program. Methods: Men and women with diverse infertility backgrounds were recruited and trained to provide online peer support to people undergoing fertility treatment. Training required volunteers to (1) read a peer support training manual, (2) watch a webinar, and (3) complete practice questions, each of which was evidence-based and reviewed by key stakeholders. Results: Seventeen women and one man were trained and provided online peer support. Program satisfaction was high and training materials were rated as helpful. Peer supporters felt comfortable providing support and having their discussions monitored. They liked helping others and the convenience of a mobile application. Conclusion: Online recruitment and training of infertility peer supporters is feasible. The current program was acceptable and offers steps for improving future online peer support interventions. Practice implications: Current evidence supports the acceptability and feasibility of this training and supervision program, and provides service providers with information guiding its development and implementation.