Evaluating the implementation of adaptive mentorship networks for pain, mental health and substance use concerns

Description of Research Initiative

The healthcare system in Canada is facing a crisis due to a shortage of healthcare professionals (HCP), especially in primary care, disparities in access to services and an aging workforce. The COVID-19 pandemic has magnified the crisis by increasing burnout and attrition. To address this crisis, various strategies have been proposed, such as increasing the number of HCPs and improving working conditions. The Adaptive Mentoring Networks (AMN) is an innovation being used in several provinces in Canada to enable continuous professional development, to improve the mental well-being of HCPs, and support collaboration.

We have assembled a diverse team of experts and professionals to study the AMNs at different stages of development. The aim is to gain a scientific understanding of the drivers that increase the successful development of these networks, to address the healthcare workforce (HCW) crisis.

The research will be conducted in three phases:

  1. Exploration: Study existing AMNs to identify what makes them successful, their challenges in complex healthcare systems, and the factors affecting the adoption of adaptive mentorship.
  2. Tailored Strategies: The research team and our collaborators will design evidence informed strategies to overcome barriers and leverage opportunities to implement and scale AMNs at the system level and support the adoption of adaptive mentoring among mentors and mentees.
  3. Supporting Implementation and Evaluation: Will develop specific plans to further develop each AMN working with local teams and assess the use of these strategies and their effects.

The research will use methods such as document reviews, interviews, focus groups, surveys, and expert consultations to gather information and make informed decisions. The goal is to create a framework to expand and use interventions like AMNs effectively in different healthcare settings. This research is vital for improving the well-being of HCPs and addressing the HCW crisis in Canada.

Graphical Depiction of the Study