Workshop Session 3A: Implementing the ASAM Criteria 4th Edition: An Overview of the What & the How

The collective struggle of healthcare systems to engage in timely and sustained implementation of the ASAM criteria and other EBPs has been well documented. Implementation science helps us to understand the key ingredients of effective implementation and sustainment, and shows that didactic education is necessary but clearly not sufficient to ensure implementation success.

The NIATx model for improvement has emerged during the last twenty years as a highly effective toolbox for implementation and improvement of EBPs. The partnership between the NIATx Foundation and The Change Companies / Train for Change moves us toward a focused sequence of tested process tools for ASAM implementation (walk-through, flow chart, nominal group technique, data-driven PDSA cycles, etc.). This union of the “What” and “How” of ASAM and NIATx employs diverse teams that choose. Implement, and sustain change strategies that get results.

Plan and teaching method:

Using the NIATx Change Charter worksheet, participants will be divided into “change teams” of five to seven individuals. Efforts will be made to ensure diversity of experience is represented within the teams by quickly grouping attendees according to work role criteria. Following a brief introductory lecture regarding NIATx as a vehicle for implementing ASAM criteria, participants will be led through a rapid simulation that will include the following elements:

1. Simulated walk-through and flow charting of a selected area of concern from an ASAM Criteria checklist.
2. Brief brainstorming (nominal group technique) to consider strategies to address the needs revealed by the walk-through and flow chart.
3. Drafting of a plan for a PDSA rapid cycle change to test the strategy using an indicator measure of ASAM criteria compliance.
The workshop will conclude with a Q&A session designed to address the real-world application needs of participants, and each individual will leave the session with a copy of the Charter tool to guide them through their own ASAM implementation efforts. Approximately 75% of the session will involve interactive group-based activity.