Model System:

SCI

Reference Type:

JA

Accession No.:

NULL

Journal:

Spinal Cord

Year, Volume, Issue, Page(s):

, 104, NULL, 43107

Publication Website:

Abstract:

Study design: A process evaluation of a clinical trial. Objectives: To describe the roles ful?lled by peer health coaches (PHCs) with spinal cord injury (SCI) during a randomized controlled trial research study called ‘My Care My Call’, a novel telephone-based, peer-led self-management intervention for adults with chronic SCI 1+ years after injury. Setting: Connecticut and Greater Boston Area, MA, USA. Methods: Directed content analysis was used to qualitatively examine information from 504 tele-coaching calls, conducted with 42 participants with SCI, by two trained SCI PHCs. Self-management was the focus of each 6-month PHC–peer relationship. PHCs documented how and when they used the communication tools (CTs) and information delivery strategies (IDSs) they developed for the intervention. Interaction data were coded and analyzed to determine PHC roles in relation to CT and IDS utilization and application. Results: PHCs performed three principal roles: Role Model, Supporter, and Advisor. Role Model interactions included CTs and IDSs that allowed PHCs to share personal experiences of managing and living with an SCI, including sharing their opinions and advice when appropriate. As Supporters, PHCs used CTs and IDSs to build credible relationships based on dependability and reassuring encouragement. PHCs ful?lled the unique role of Advisor using CTs and IDSs to teach and strategize with peers about SCI self-management. Conclusion: The SCI PHC performs a powerful, ?exible role in promoting SCI self-management among peers. Analysis of PHC role scan inform the design of peer-led interventions and highlights the importance for the provision of peer mentor training.Spinal Cord advance online publication, 10 October 2017; doi:10.1038/sc.2017.104

Author(s):

S E Skeels, D Pernigotti, B V Houlihan, T Belliveau, M Brody, J Zazula, S Hasiotis, S Seetharama, D Rosenblum and A Jette

Participating Centers: