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Monitoring the Dissemination of Peer Support in the VA Healthcare System

Community Mental Health Journal volume 44, pages 433–441 (2008)Cite this article

Abstract

This study illustrates a monitoring system for peer support programs, focusing on Vet-to-Vet, a program for veterans with chronic psychiatric disorders. The sample consisted of 1,847 anonymous surveys from 38 veteran peer support programs. Program satisfaction and recovery orientation were positively associated with duration and frequency of participation in peer support. Program satisfaction was also associated with the Vet-to-Vet model and location at a VA medical center (vs. other model & location types). Payment for peer facilitators was positively associated with recovery orientation, spirituality, and engagement in meaningful activity. Additional research using experimental design methods is needed to determine the impact of peer support on mental health outcomes.

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. New England MIRECC – VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, CT, USA

    Jessica A. Barber

  2. New England MIRECC, West Haven, CT, USA

    Robert A. Rosenheck & Sandra G. Resnick

  3. Yale University School of Medicine, 950 Campbell Avenue, West Haven, CT, 06516, USA

    Robert A. Rosenheck

  4. Errera Community Care Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System, 114 Orange Avenue, West Haven, CT, 06516, USA

    Moe Armstrong

  5. Yale University School of Medicine, NEPEC (182), 950 Campbell Avenue, West Haven, CT, 06516, USA

    Sandra G. Resnick

Authors
  1. Jessica A. Barber
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  2. Robert A. Rosenheck
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  3. Moe Armstrong
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  4. Sandra G. Resnick
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to Sandra G. Resnick.

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Barber, J.A., Rosenheck, R.A., Armstrong, M. et al. Monitoring the Dissemination of Peer Support in the VA Healthcare System. Community Ment Health J 44, 433–441 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10597-008-9146-7

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10597-008-9146-7

Keywords

  • Peer support
  • Recovery
  • Vet-to-Vet
  • Program evaluation