The Nuts and Bolts of Health Care: Evaluating an initiative to build direct support professional capacity to support the health care of individuals with intellectual disabilities. Issue 2 (5th January 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Selick, Avra; Durbin, Janet; Salonia, Chanelle; Volpe, Tiziana; Orr, Erin; Hermans, Heather; Zaretsky, Lauren; Malhas, Mais; Lunsky, Yona
• Is Part Of: Journal of applied research in intellectual disabilities. Volume 35:Issue 2(2022)
• Page Start: 623
• Page End: 632
• Publication Date: 2022-01-05
• Subjects: capacity‐building -- communication tools -- direct support professionals -- health care -- intellectual disability -- mixed methods; Learning disabilities -- Periodicals; Mental retardation -- Periodicals; Learning disabled -- Periodicals; People with mental disabilities -- Periodicals; 616.85880072
• DOI: 10.1111/jar.12975
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1360-2322

Abstract

Abstract: Background: Direct support professionals (DSP) are instrumental in supporting the health care of individuals with intellectual disabilities, yet receive little training and support for this role. We implemented a capacity building intervention for DSPs in a community agency in Ontario, Canada. This study evaluated the perceived value and feasibility of the intervention and the value of a structured implementation approach. Method: The intervention included communication tools, a health resource toolkit, and training. A mixed methods evaluation was used to collect feedback from DSPs and people with intellectual disabilities. Results: Participants generally found the intervention valuable and feasible. Although practice change is difficult, extensive engagement and being responsive to feedback were helpful strategies. The primary concern reported by DSPs was resistance from health care providers. Conclusion: An important next step is to engage health care providers to ensure the tools are valuable and feasible for everyone involved in the health encounter.