Development and nationwide implementation of a postdischarge responsive parenting intervention program for very preterm born children: The TOP program.

Abstract

ABSTRACTA previous randomized controlled trial has suggested the effectiveness of a Dutch postdischarge responsive parenting program for very preterm (VPT) infants, indicating that nationwide implementation was justified. This paper describes the development and nationwide implementation of the intervention, known as the TOP program, which consisted of three phases. In the preparation phase (2006–2010), a theory of change and the structure of the TOP program were developed, and funding for phase two, based on a positive Business Case, was obtained. In the pilot implementation phase (2010–2014), intervention strategies were developed for a real‐world setting, capacity and adoption were increased, systematic evaluations were incorporated, and sustained funding was obtained. In the full‐implementation phase (2014–2019), all Dutch Healthcare Insurers reimbursed the TOP program, enabling VPT infants to participate in the program without charge. By 2018, the number of interventionists that provided the TOP program had increased from 37 to 91, and all level III hospitals and 65% of regional hospitals in the Netherlands referred VPT infants. Currently, the program reaches 70% of the Dutch target population and parental satisfaction with the TOP program is high. After a 12‐year implementation period, the TOP program forms part of routine care in the Netherlands.