Qualitative and quantitative feedback following workshop training in evidence-based practices: A dissemination study.

It is often difficult for evidence-based practices (EBPs) to find their way into addiction treatment programs. One goal of the National Institute on Drug Abuse’s Clinical Trials Network (CTN) is to disseminate these EBPs into community treatment programs. The Southwest Node of the CTN hosted a series of 13 local workshops in EBPs led by experts in the topic areas. Participants (N=327) were asked to complete an online evaluation of the training with a follow-up rate of 75.8%. Respondents reported that the trainings had been applied to their workplace. Qualitative analysis revealed themes of gratitude and a need for additional training opportunities. Participant enthusiasm for training was indicated by the willingness to travel up to a thousand miles and independently pay for travel expenses.

Conclusions: Results suggest that following a workshop training in EBPs, participants reported long-term (14 month) high satisfaction with the training and believed the trainings had been incorporated into their daily practice. Frontline providers are aware of EBPs and eager for further trainings. However, future dissemination studies in front-line settings should involve formal assessments of training needs, objective measures of skill acquisition, and inclusion of training enrichments to supplement the workshop format.