Evaluating a Project Extension for Community Health Outcomes Pediatric Behavioral Health Series in a Rural and Frontier State: An Exploratory Investigation

BACKGROUND: Idaho, a predominately rural state, has a high prevalence of mental illness with minimal access to care. Barriers in diagnosis and treatment of pediatric behavioral health disorders could be mitigated with an accessible and effective specialty training program. METHODS: A 10-session Project Extension for Community Health Outcomes (ECHO) series was designed to expand provider knowledge about pediatric behavioral health conditions and improve perceived clinical practice skills. Pre- and postseries evaluation surveys and individual session evaluations were used to assess the program. RESULTS: A total of 148 individuals attended at least 1 of the 10 sessions. Participants reported high satisfaction with individual sessions and indicated that attendance positively impacted their knowledge and competency. Participants also reported that the knowledge and skills gained from the series would benefit more than half of their patients or clients. CONCLUSION: The short ECHO series appears to be a viable and valuable option to provide Idaho providers with effective specialty training that is well attended and well received.