Peer Support Program Research Articles

Examining the effect of family-based intervention programs used in psychosis on the disease: a systematic review

IntroductionPsychosis is a complex mental health condition that can have a significant impact on individuals and their families. Family-based intervention programs have been developed to provide support and education to both individuals with psychosis and their families. These programs aim to improve clinical and family outcomes, reduce relapse rates, and enhance the overall well-being of individuals and their families . This study examined the effect of family-based intervention programs used in psychosis on the disease by synthesizing evidence from a systematic review of relevant studies.Family interventions have shown promising results in improving clinical and family outcomes in long-standing psychosis (Sadath et al., 2015). These interventions focus on improving relationships through problem-solving and enhancing the understanding of the illness and its treatment (Kuipers et al., 2010).ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of intervention programs implemented for the families of individuals diagnosed with psychosis on the course of the disease.MethodsThe study was conducted between August and September 2023 in 3 databases (PubMed, Cochrane Library, Science Direct) using the keywords “psychosis”, “family interventions”, “family in psychosis”. These databases were preferred because they contain a significant amount of evidence-based literature in the field of biomedical sciences and psychology. Studies conducted between 2013 and 2023, whose full texts were accessed and written in Turkish and English were included in the study.ResultsAs of September 2023, 16 national and international research articles on the subject have been reached and the literature review continues. When the literature review is finalized, all study results will be presented together.ConclusionsThis review provides an overview of the effects of intervention programs implemented for the families of individuals diagnosed with psychosis on the course of the disease and solution suggestions. Family-based intervention programs have shown promise in improving clinical and family outcomes in psychosis. These programs focus on enhancing relationships, providing education, and reducing relapse rates. However, the implementation of family interventions in routine clinical services can be challenging due to various barriers. Peer support programs have emerged as a valuable addition to family interventions, providing a supportive environment for families to share their experiences and support one another. Future research should focus on addressing barriers to implementation and further exploring the benefits of peer-driven family support services in early intervention programs for psychosis.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared

IJCM_134A: Community Engagement Strategies for Prevention and Control of Non-communicable Diseases in Primary Healthcare Settings: A review of evidences from Low- and Middle-income countries

Background: Community engagement is considered as one of the pillars in successful implementation program for prevention and control of Non- Communicable Diseases (NCDs). Objective: To gather evidence from the available literature concerning effective strategies for enhancing community engagement in primary healthcare for NCD prevention, which are appropriate for resource constraint settings in low- and middle-income countries. Methodology: This study followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analysis for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA- ScR) guidelines. Original articles and reports published from January 2000 to September 2023, in English language; with the following designs- Randomized controlled trials with single or multiple arms, quasi- experimental studies, public health practices and qualitative studies, available online were included in this review. Digital databases like PubMed and Google scholar were searched to find out articles, using a pre-designed peer- reviewed search strategy by combining established search terms and free text terms. Further, hand search was made by going through the references of the retrieved articles. All publications were independently evaluated by two reviewers. Information extracted from the published articles were recorded using a pre-designed data extraction sheet in Microsoft excel. Results: Key interventions emerged from the review included group-based peer support program; family level intervention; setting based approach (Health Promoting school /institution /market /hospital); advocacy, network and counselling among People Living with NCDs etc. Evidence also suggested use of appropriate technology such as CPHC-NCD Software, generation of Ayushman Bharat-Health Account IDs (ABHA IDs) through National NCD Portal, maintenance of NCD data record and register in digital formats on National NCD Portal and spreading community dialog using mass media, digital media and social media. Conclusion: The findings of this study will guide the development and implementation of evidence-based interventions for prevention of NCDs using primary healthcare platform suitable for resource limited settings.

Evaluation of a peer-support, ‘mentor mother’ program in Gaza, Mozambique; a qualitative study

BackgroundRetention in prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV programs is critical to reduce vertical transmission. To addresses challenges with retention, Mozambique launched a peer-support program in 2018, in which HIV-positive mothers provide adherence support as mentor mothers (MMs) for HIV-positive pregnant and lactating women and HIV-exposed and infected children.MethodsA descriptive qualitative evaluation was conducted across nine facilities in Gaza Province to assess the acceptability and barriers to implementation of the mentor mother program (MMP) among those receiving services and providing services. In-depth interviews and focus group discussions were conducted with MMs, MM supervisors, health care workers (HCWs), HIV-positive mothers enrolled in the MMP, HIV-positive mothers who declined MMP enrollment, and key informants involved in the implementation of the program. Thematic analysis identified emerging recurrent themes and patterns across the participants’ responses. Data were collected between November-December 2020.ResultsThere were initial challenges with acceptability of the MMP, especially regarding confidentiality concerns and MM roles. Sharing additional information about MMs and making small changes during the beginning of the MMP resulted in generally high acceptance of the MMP. HIV-positive mothers reported that counseling from MMs improved their understanding of the importance of anti-retroviral treatment (ART) and how to take and administer ART. HIV-positive mothers reported having reduced guilt and shame about their HIV-status, feeling less alone, and having more control over their health. MMs shared that their work made them feel valued and decreased their self-stigmatization. However, MMs also reported feeling that they had inadequate resources to perform optimal job functions; they listed inadequate transportation, insufficient stipends, and false addresses of clients among their constraints. Overall, HCWs felt that their workload was significantly reduced with MM support and wanted more MMs in the community and health facility.ConclusionsThis study found that the MMP was considered a substantive and highly valued support to HIV-positive mothers, resulting in increased ART literacy among patients, improved self-reported well-being and sense of community and reduced feelings of isolation. Recommendations include strengthening MM training, increasing financial and materiel resources, additional information provided to newly enrolled mothers and support for the male partners.

Emergency Department Peer Support Program and Patient Outcomes After Opioid Overdose

Patients treated in emergency departments (EDs) for opioid overdose often need drug treatment yet are rarely linked to services after discharge. Emergency department-based peer support is a promising approach for promoting treatment linkage, but evidence of its effectiveness is lacking. To examine the association of the Opioid Overdose Recovery Program (OORP), an ED peer recovery support service, with postdischarge addiction treatment initiation, repeat overdose, and acute care utilization. This intention-to-treat retrospective cohort study used 2014 to 2020 New Jersey Medicaid data for Medicaid enrollees aged 18 to 64 years who were treated for nonfatal opioid overdose from January 2015 to June 2020 at 70 New Jersey acute care hospitals. Data were analyzed from August 2022 to November 2023. Hospital OORP implementation. The primary outcome was medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD) initiation within 60 days of discharge. Secondary outcomes included psychosocial treatment initiation, medically treated drug overdoses, and all-cause acute care visits after discharge. An event study design was used to compare 180-day outcomes between patients treated in OORP hospitals and those treated in non-OORP hospitals. Analyses adjusted for patient demographics, comorbidities, and prior service use and for community-level sociodemographics and drug treatment access. A total of 12 046 individuals were included in the study (62.0% male). Preimplementation outcome trends were similar for patients treated in OORP and non-OORP hospitals. Implementation of the OORP was associated with an increase of 0.034 (95% CI, 0.004-0.064) in the probability of 60-day MOUD initiation in the half-year after implementation, representing a 45% increase above the preimplementation mean probability of 0.075 (95% CI, 0.066-0.084). Program implementation was associated with fewer repeat medically treated overdoses 4 half-years (-0.086; 95% CI, -0.154 to -0.018) and 5 half-years (-0.106; 95% CI, -0.184 to -0.028) after implementation. Results differed slightly depending on the reference period used, and hospital-specific models showed substantial heterogeneity in program outcomes across facilities. In this cohort study of patients treated for opioid overdose, OORP implementation was associated with an increase in MOUD initiation and a decrease in repeat medically treated overdoses. The large variation in outcomes across hospitals suggests that treatment effects were heterogeneous and may depend on factors such as implementation success, program embeddedness, and availability of other hospital- and community-based OUD services.

The Impact of the Peer Support Programme on Interpersonal Relationship, Self-Esteem, General Health Questionnaire and Adaptation Scale for School Environments on Six Spheres among Japanese High School Pupils

This study aimed to explore how the peer support programme gave influences on technical high school pupils in Japan. The study invited a total 76 pupils (37 in an intervention group and 39 in a control group) to be involved into the peer support programme and assessments. The participants were annually assessed three times by adopting four scales, which examined their interpersonal relationship level, self-esteem, mental health, and school environmental adaptation states. The results showed that pupils in the intervention group (the peer supporters) tended to improve their own skills and abilities in terms of all the scales after joining the programme. Also, in terms of Adaptation Scale for School Environments on Six Spheres (ASSESS), which was a newly developed scale, there were no significant positive influences in both areas of “fulfillments in study” and “peer support activities against bullying”. As a conclusion, even in the technical high school where the majority of pupils were male, the peer support programme gave positive influences on the intervention group (the peer supporters) in terms of interpersonal relationship level, self-esteem, mental health, and school environmental adaptation states.

Forgone healthcare for medically vulnerable groups during the pandemic era: experiences of family caregivers of young adults with substance use disorders in Zambia.

Scholars worldwide have defined the COVID-19 pandemic as a mass-disabling event of our time. The situation is grave for families experiencing financial hurdles while caring for young adults in recovery from addiction problems. Using semi-structured interviews with 30 purposively selected family caregivers (FCGs) of young adults with substance use disorders (SUDs) in Lusaka, Zambia, this study reveals several factors influencing forgone healthcare for this medically vulnerable group. Financial challenges and huge out-of-pocket bills; caregivers' perceived far-fetched recovery of the young adult; the cost of medication and transportation; the young adult's little perceived need for healthcare service use, their runaway and treatment elusive tendencies; caregiver concerns about contracting the virus, and the stigma associated with it; and a fragmented child and adolescent mental health system influenced forgone healthcare. The young adults were often unavailable for days and months, posing challenges to the continuity of care. Despite caregivers' acknowledgment of the availability of healthcare professionals, young adults with problematic substance use had limited access to SUD recovery services, resulting in adverse health outcomes. Results also show that most family caregivers encountered challenges in accessing and purchasing psychotropic medications, which were difficult to find during the lockdowns. Some family caregivers lost their sources of income by being laid off from work due to the pandemic and skipping work to attend to caregiving responsibilities. Most of those in self-employment had to close their business and stay home to look after their youth. Several caregivers kept their youth at home because they failed to access private residential SUD recovery services. Family caregivers mostly relied on outpatient public health services, alternative medicine from traditional healers, and faith-based healing, all of which some young adults rarely accessed because of their problematic behaviors of escaping healthcare. These identifiable risk factors, and their detrimental consequences highlight the need for interventions to improve healthcare access for this vulnerable population. Supporting FCGs of addicted young adults is crucial in ensuring the well-being of both the caregivers and care recipients. Further research is warranted to explore potential solutions, such as peer support programs, policy changes, and education initiatives for carers and recipients in the (post) pandemic era.

From Fathers to Fathers—Telephone-Based Peer Support: A Feasibility Study

Background: Men can struggle with adapting to their new roles as they transition into fatherhood. While social support has been shown to be effective at aiding this transition, little research has focused on the implementation of, and satisfaction with, telephone-based peer support for new fathers. Aims: This qualitative study aimed to investigate the implementation of, and satisfaction with, a telephone-based peer support program for new fathers. Methods: A qualitative study with 13 interviews of first-time fathers and peers was analysed using content analysis, in accordance with Elo and Kyngäs. Individual interviews were conducted using a semi-structured interview guide that lasted between 30–45 min. Results: Two themes emerged from the fathers’ interviews (n = 6): (1) conditions that affect the telephone support experience; and (2) the importance of support. The fathers appreciated the confirmation stories shared by their peers, as these stories served as valuable examples that they could adapt and incorporate into their own parenting approaches. Two themes emerged from the peer interviews (n = 7): (1) peers’ own role and experience; and (2) the Importance of listening to fathers. Peers felt appreciated and acted like role models for new fathers, helping them to adjust to parenting life. Study limitations: The results may not transfer to multi-time fathers. Conclusions: The findings of this study provide valuable insights into the potential benefits and challenges of implementing a telephone-based peer support program for first-time fathers, which could further inform similar interventions.

Barriers and Facilitators to the Implementation of a Peer Support Intervention in Universities

ABSTRACT A growing number of postsecondary institutions offer peer support interventions to promote mental health among their students. However, little is known about the key factors that influence the implementation of this type of intervention. This study explored barriers and facilitators to implementing an online peer support program based on Acceptance and Commitment Therapy aimed at reducing stress and anxiety among students of three universities in Montreal, Canada. Peer supporters were asked to complete a survey containing open-ended questions at the end of each semester. Interviews were also conducted with the program coordinator, three psychologists who acted as supervisors, and 14 peer supporters. The data were analysed with an inductive and a deductive approach using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR). Perceived barriers to the implementation of the intervention included technical problems with the videoconferencing platform, psychosocial and comorbidity issues among peers, recruitment difficulties, and communication concerns between stakeholders. Key perceived facilitators were the theoretical and empirical foundations of the intervention, the support offered by directors, and the process used to recruit, select, and supervise peer supporters. Based on the results of this study, practical recommendations are provided for researchers and practitioners interested in implementing online peer support initiatives in postsecondary institutions.

Get-togethers: Guided Peer-Support Groups for Young Carers.

To address Young Carers' (YCs) needs for space and opportunities to reflect and exchange, a guided peer-support programme, the "Get-togethers", was developed in collaboration with YC in Switzerland in 2018. In order to evaluate if the Get-togethers were able to meet their originally set goals of (1) strengthening support among YCs, (2) promoting their life skills, (3) strengthening their social network and (4) promoting the inclusion and participation of YCs, participants of the Get-togethers were asked to complete a short questionnaire about their participation in and experiences with the Get-togethers. We also analysed the standard documentation of 17 Get-togethers held between May 2021 and September 2023. Overall, the Get-togethers were rated positively in almost all areas of the survey and the documentation, indicating that the four originally set objectives of the Get-togethers were (at least largely) achieved. The Get-togethers covered a large part of the needs of YCs, such as emotional support and opportunities to relax and exchange with people in a similar situation, yet they largely failed to reach minor YCs and male YCs. Further support programmes should be developed to address the different needs of different groups of YCs.

Investigating the efficacy of peer tutoring to support Latinx students in Hispanic serving community colleges

AbstractAlthough open‐access Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSIs) continue to expand across the United States, they are often under‐resourced and lack adequate institutional support services. This article presents findings from a qualitative case study of an asset‐based, peer support program for Latinx students in an open‐access HSI in the Southeast United States. The article's findings, informed by the theory of community cultural wealth, indicate that peer tutoring honors the linguistic capital of Latinx students, nurtures familia within the institution, enhances students’ navigational capital, and helps students navigate the nuances of social capital by encouraging the maintenance of their cultural integrity as they strengthen tutor‐tutee relationships and forge relationships across their institution. Therefore, this article argues that identity‐affirming peer support programs could efficiently and effectively ameliorate Latinx student challenges in under‐resourced MSIs, particularly at the community college level, thereby generating a more inclusive institutional environment conducive to student success.

Exploring long-term outcomes of a peer support programme for parents* of children with disability in Australia.

Peer support groups can offer parents of children with disability, positive well-being outcomes. Peer support groups not only provide opportunities for connections with others with similar experiences but also provide resources and information, emotional support, a sense of belonging and may help reduce stress and isolation. Peer support groups are an established form of support existing within family centred practice. However, it is unclear whether peer support groups achieve the outcomes that they aim to deliver. Further, little is known about the longer-term outcomes for parents attending such groups. This study aimed to explore the medium- and long-term outcomes and experiences of parents who participated in a peer support programme (the Now and Next programme) for parents of children with disability. Well-being data were collected at three timepoints (Ts): prior to commencing the programme (T1), immediately after completion of the programme (T2) and 6-30 months after completion of the programme (T3). Results of the study showed empowerment and well-being improved from T1 to T2, with gains maintained at T3. Hope scores did not significantly change over time. Participants continued to set and achieve goals over time using resources from the programme. Improvements in parents' well-being and empowerment scores were maintained in the longer-term. Our study contributes to evidence confirming sustained long-term outcomes of peer support programmes and demonstrates that building parent capacity, empowerment and well-being has a lasting effect on the parents of children with disability.

Department of Anesthesiology Skilled Peer Support Program Outcomes: Second Victim Perceptions

Most anesthesia providers experience an adverse event during their training or career. Limited evidence suggests skilled peer support programs (SPSPs) reduce initial distress and support adaptive functioning and coping. This study evaluated second victim perceptions of a voluntary SPSP. An SPSP was developed and implemented for all clinical and administrative personnel in the Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine in three hospitals and six outpatient surgery centers in December 2017. The program incorporated the Scott Three-Tiered Interventional Model of Second Victim Support. Surveys were offered to clinicians in the department prior to implementation of the SPSP and again 18 months after implementation. Among the subset of respondents who experienced a serious adverse patient event, the authors used multiple logistic regression models that adjusted for role and number of night shifts per month to examine differences in perceived resource availability and post-event support received following implementation of the program. There were 94 surveys (83 complete; 11 partially complete) collected prior to implementation and 84 surveys (67 complete; 17 partially complete) collected after implementation. A total of 25 individuals took the survey at both pre and post (19 complete). After implementation, 62.5% of respondents indicated that institutional support had improved since the occurrence of their serious adverse patient event. Statistical models identified a significant improvement in the probability that a clinician agreed with the statement "I think that the organization learned from the event and took appropriate steps to reduce the chance of it happening again" at post vs. pre (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 3.9, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.01-15.1. A statistically significant increase from pre to post in the perceived availability of formal emotional support was identified (aOR 5.2, 95% CI 1.9-22.5). Implementation of a skilled peer support program within a large department of anesthesiology can improve institutional-based emotional support.

Enhancement of International Students’ Psychological Well-Being and Social Integration Through Peer-to-Peer Support Networks

This study explores the efficacy of “Peer-to-Peer Wellbeing Circles” in enhancing the psychological well-being and social integration of international students. Through a combination of literature review, innovative program design, and empirical evaluation, we address the prevalent issues of loneliness, cultural shock, and mental health challenges faced by this population. Our methodology involves matching students based on shared interests and backgrounds and facilitating monthly exchange activities to foster connections. Findings from questionnaire feedback highlight significant improvements in participants’ social interactions and mental health support, with a majority reporting enhanced well-being. This initiative underscores the vital role of peer support networks in educational settings, offering a replicable model for institutions aiming to improve international student experiences. Our results contribute to the growing body of evidence supporting structured peer support programs as a means to alleviate the psychological stresses of studying abroad.

Lessons learned from efforts to prevent behavioral health problems and promote mental wellbeing in the US military

The global economic burden of mental health disorders is substantial and continues to increase. To reverse this devastating trend, solutions are needed to not only treat but to prevent the emergence of mental health conditions negatively affecting an individual's health and their social and occupational functioning. Given that military personnel and their families experience a number of factors that may serve to elevate risk for mental health problems (e.g., separation from sources of social support, job-related stress and trauma exposure, combat), the US military has instituted a number of programs to prevent mental and behavioral disorders, which may provide benefit to civilian contexts. The present paper overviews military programs that seek to build individual resilience, utilize social support and peer support programs for preventing mental health problems, and emphasize the role of early identification and treatment for preventing worsening or continued distress. We propose these programs can be adapted for and implemented into civilian settings for mental health prevention. Parallels are drawn between military and civilian settings, with proposed recommendations and considerations for adaptation discussed. Civilian communities may benefit from the lessons learned from implementation in military settings to inform their own prevention strategies.

Peer Support for Type 2 Diabetes Management in Low- and Middle-Income Countries (LMICs): A Scoping Review.

Although there is evidence of peer support in high-income countries, the use of peer support as an intervention for cardiometabolic disease management, including type 2 diabetes (T2DM), in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), is unclear. A scoping review methodology was used to search the databases MEDLINE, Embase, Emcare, PsycINFO, LILACS, CDSR, and CENTRAL. Twenty-eight studies were included in this scoping review. Of these, 67% were developed in Asia, 22% in Africa, and 11% in the Americas. The definition of peer support varied; however, peer support offered a social and emotional dimension to help individuals cope with negative emotions and barriers while promoting disease management. Findings from this scopingreview highlight a lack of consistency in defining peer support as a component of CMD management in LMICs. A clear definition of peer support and ongoing program evaluation is recommended for future research.

Navigating the landscape of Postpartum Depression: a comprehensive review

Introduction and purpose:
 The joyous occasion of childbirth is often overshadowed by the prevalence of postpartum depression (PPD), a complex mental health condition affecting mothers globally. This paper reviews the current state of knowledge on PPD, exploring its frequency, risk factors, pathogenesis, symptoms, and impact on maternal and child health.
 Description of the State of Knowledge:
 Recent studies indicate an alarming increase in PPD rates, with notable racial and socioeconomic disparities. Symptoms of PPD, ranging from mild to severe include mood disturbances, cognitive impairments, and self-harm ideation. The repercussions extend beyond the postpartum period, affecting long-term child development, breastfeeding practices, and the mother-infant bond. Advancements in screening tools, particularly the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), have facilitated early detection. However, creating an environment conducive to open communication about mental health remains a significant challenge. Interventions for PPD include psychotherapeutic approaches, pharmacological interventions, and complementary therapies. Brexanolone, the first FDA-approved drug for PPD, represents a significant breakthrough. Community-based and peer support programs, alongside a multidisciplinary approach involving healthcare professionals and support networks, have shown promise in alleviating PPD symptoms.
 Summary:
 In conclusion, PPD remains a substantial public health concern. Increased awareness of its multifaceted nature has led to improved screening, diagnosis, and intervention strategies. Ongoing dialogue, supportive environments, and refined treatments are essential for enhancing the well-being of both mothers and their infants in the postpartum period.

The barriers and enablers to accessing sexual health and sexual well-being services for midlife women (aged 40-65 years) in high-income countries: A mixed-methods systematic review.

Midlife, beginning at 40 years and extending to 65 years, a range that encompasses the late reproductive to late menopausal stages, is a unique time in women's lives, when hormonal and physical changes are often accompanied by psychological and social evolution. Access to sexual health and sexual well-being (SHSW) services, which include the prevention and management of sexually transmitted infections, contraception and the support of sexual function, pleasure and safety, is important for the health of midlife women, their relationships and community cohesion. The objective was to use the socio-ecological model to synthesise the barriers and enablers to SHSW services for midlife women in high-income countries. A systematic review of the enablers and barriers to women (including trans-gender and non-binary people) aged 40-65 years accessing SHSW services in high-income countries was undertaken. Four databases (PubMed, PsycINFO, Web of Science and Google Scholar) were searched for peer-reviewed publications. Findings were thematically extracted and reported in a narrative synthesis. Eighty-one studies were included; a minority specifically set out to study SHSW care for midlife women. The key barriers that emerged were the intersecting disadvantage of under-served groups, poor knowledge, about SHSW, and SHSW services, among women and their healthcare professionals (HCPs), and the over-arching effect of stigma, social connections and psychological factors on access to care. Enablers included intergenerational learning, interdisciplinary and one-stop women-only services, integration of SHSW into other services, peer support programmes, representation of minoritised midlife women working in SHSW, local and free facilities and financial incentives to access services for under-served groups. Efforts are needed to enhance education about SHSW and related services among midlife women and their healthcare providers. This increased education should be leveraged to improve research, public health messaging, interventions, policy development and access to comprehensive services, especially for midlife women from underserved groups.

The Impact of The Parent-To-Parent Peer Support Program on the Disenfranchised Grief Severity of Mothers with Preterm Infants

The Impact of The Parent-To-Parent Peer Support Program on the Disenfranchised Grief Severity of Mothers with Preterm Infants

INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE (IBD) COMMUNITY PREFERENCES FOR PSYCHOSOCIAL SUPPORT: THE ROLE AND SCOPE OF PEER SUPPORT FOR YOUTH WITH IBD

Abstract INTRODUCTION Youth with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) experience psychosocial challenges which can negatively impact their body image, self-efficacy, IBD symptoms, and risk of disease recurrence. Peer support programs have high desirability amongst IBD patients and can improve disease management skills, self-efficacy, and mental health generally. Existing peer support programs vary, ranging from one-on-one peer coaching to professionally-led support groups to IBD summer camps. However, there is limited research identifying best practices for peer support in IBD. Community-based participatory research (CBPR) is a framework that centers patient voices in all phases of research, providing an opportunity to equitably represent patient preferences in the development of peer support programs. METHODS Our mixed-methods community survey was disseminated across the US to adults eighteen or older with IBD via patient organizations. This survey assessed patient preferences for a peer support program, including structure (e.g., support group, 1:1 mentor, group activities) and program topics (e.g., body image, social life, medical care). Participants ranked these on a 5-point Likert scale (from “Not at all important” to “Extremely important”) and also had an open-ended opportunity to provide other topic suggestions. Given our CBPR approach, we recruited a Patient Advisory Board (PAB), composed of adults diagnosed with IBD in childhood, and conducted one-on-one interviews to assess patient perspectives of the survey results. RESULTS Our sample included 77 participants (mean age 29, 39.5% with ulcerative colitis, 60.5% with Crohn’s disease). Participants ranked doing non-IBD activities (e.g., games, meals) as quite a bit important, while IBD activities (e.g., IBD comic book) were ranked moderately important. PAB members emphasized that the strength of a patient-led support program is the shared experience and “normalcy” of having IBD, and that limiting a program to IBD activities wouldn’t allow for spontaneous conversation and trust-building. The average ranking of all topics surveyed fell between “extremely important” to “quite a bit important.” In order of importance, topics included navigating social life and mental health, increasing independence while growing older, planning for the future, communicating with the healthcare team, disclosure to friends, navigating school, body image, medical management, and nutrition. Themes suggested by participants included sexual intimacy, fertility, and advocacy. PAB members emphasized the role of peer support interventions as complementary to medical care, and specifically, how peer mentorship can allow for ‘real world’ examples of navigating life with IBD, outside traditional topics discussed in medical appointments. We will use this mixed-methods data to inform our design of a novel IBD peer support program.

P372 Barriers and facilitators of the transition from paediatric to adult care in inflammatory bowel disease: A Western Canadian perspective

Abstract Background Patients diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in childhood/adolescence face additional challenges compared to those diagnosed in adulthood, including more extensive disease and higher risk of complications. The need to undergo transition from paediatric to adult care is associated with an increase in health care utilization and a decrease in adherence to medical appointments and medications. An effective transition may reduce these negative impacts, but there remains a need to engage the stakeholders involved in transition to identify ways to improve the transition process. This study aims to describe the perspectives of key stakeholders - patients, parents, and health care providers - on barriers and facilitators of a successful transition from paediatric to adult care. Methods We conducted a qualitative description study informed by naturalistic inquiry. Patients, parents, and providers from Western Canada were recruited using purposive and snowball sampling for a virtual semi-structured interview. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and then analyzed by latent content analysis. Results We interviewed 17 patients, 13 parents, and 15 providers. Preparedness as a facilitator was the only theme to emerge across all groups. Groups described preparedness as knowing disease history (patients & providers), expectations of adult care (providers), and having a peer support program (parents). A supportive adult care team was identified as a facilitator by patients (n=10) and parents (n=4) who described an adult care team as one with open lines of communication, and one that is welcoming and caring. Additional facilitator themes included patient characteristics (i.e., patients who were mature, organized, and independent), and supportive parents and home environment, where a patient’s self-confidence and ability to advocate for themselves was encouraged. A barrier theme of patient factors was characterized by providers (n=8) and parents (n=4) as patients in denial of their IBD or who had mental health comorbidities. In the theme of hovering parents and family factors, providers (n=12) described parents who were reluctant to transfer disease responsibility to their child, and families with economic and/or personal challenges. Additional barrier themes included the need to navigate a new health care system and travel to clinic. Conclusion The results suggest a uniform agreement is necessary amongst stakeholders to ensure the development of resources aimed at preparing patients. Our study found differences in how stakeholder groups characterize the barriers and facilitators of transition. Future research should engage multiple stakeholder groups in designing transition interventions and supports for patients with IBD.