Evaluation of new flexible and integrative psychiatric treatment models in Germany- assessment and preliminary validation of specific program components

BACKGROUND: Flexible and integrative treatment (FIT) models are rather novel in German mental health care. This study aimed at identifying and evaluating empirically based, practicable, and quantifiable program components that describe the specific treatment structures and processes of German FIT models. METHODS: A multi-step, iterative research process, based on Grounded Theory Methodology (GTM), was used to identify and operationalise components. A complex algorithm and expert-interviews were applied to quantify the relative weight of each component and to develop a sum score. Face and content validity were examined and internal consistency was tested by Cronbach’s α coefficient. RESULTS: Ten of eleven FIT components could be operationalised, quantified and united in the total score. All operationalised components showed sufficient face and content validity and eight components had a good reliability. CONCLUSIONS: The components are a first step in the process of operationally defining German FIT models. They considerably overlap with various critical ingredients of international FIT models and may serve as a theoretical basis for constructing fidelity tools and research guides to enable process and outcome evaluation of German FIT models.