Using incentives for training participation

Abstract

Topic: This column describes how public partners can help incentivize participation in training. Specifically, a state mental health agency and its implementation center applied financial and nonfinancial incentives to encourage participation in training and implementation supports.

Purpose: Although training is not sufficient to change practice, it is a necessary first step in implementing evidence-based treatments. Finding ways to incentivize participation, particularly strategies with minimal resource involvement, is important for the psychiatric rehabilitation workforce and cash-strapped public systems.

Sources used: This description draws from published material and experiences from New York State.

Conclusions and implications for practice: Engaging public partners to incentivize training can significantly increase participation in training. Incentive programs exist that do not require additional funding-an important consideration, given the fiscal climate for most public payers.