Outcomes of a peer-led navigation program, PARTNER-MH, for racially minoritized Veterans receiving mental health services: a pilot randomized controlled trial to assess feasibility and acceptability

This pilot study explored the feasibility and acceptability of PARTNER-MH, which aimed to engage racially diverse Veterans in mental health services, facilitate their active participation in care, and improve their communication with providers. Fifty participants were randomized to the intervention or a waitlist control group. For primary outcomes, we assessed the feasibility of the study design and PARTNER-MH's feasibility and acceptability. For secondary outcomes, we explored preliminary effects on patient engagement, patient activation, shared decision-making, and health-related outcomes. The study had a recruitment rate of 68%, enrollment rate of 91%, and a follow-up retention rate of 72%. For intervention feasibility and acceptability, fidelity scores were satisfactory and improved over time, session attendance was modest with 33% of participants completing >= 6 sessions, and 89% of participants were satisfied with the intervention. For secondary outcomes, patients in the intervention arm showed significant improvement on self-reported mental health and depression, compared with those in the control group at both 6- and 9-month follow-ups. However, there were no significant differences between study arms on the other measures. Pilot results provide support for future testing of PARTNER-MH in a larger trial, although modifications are needed to increase session attendance and follow-up retention rate. Pilot study of a peer-led, navigation program for minoritized Veterans in VHA mental health clinics shows feasibility of further testing and acceptability of the intervention. Results also show promising improvements in mental health outcomes. However, modifications are needed to increase program session attendance and retention. Lay Summary This study tested whether a peer-led navigation program, PARTNER-MH, can be delivered effectively by peer specialists in the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) healthcare system to racially minoritized Veterans who are receiving mental healthcare. The study evaluated our ability to recruit and retain participants, deliver the intervention, and examined satisfaction with the program. We also explored preliminary effects of the program. Participants were successfully recruited for the study and peers were able to deliver the program effectively. Participants reported high satisfaction with the program and significant improvements in mental health outcomes, although completion rate of the program was low. Results provide support for future testing of PARTNER-MH in a larger trial, with modifications to increase program session attendance and retention.