Best practices for assessing competence and performance of the behavioral health workforce

Adm Policy Ment Health. 2005 May-Jul;32(5-6):563-92. doi: 10.1007/s10488-005-3265-z.

Abstract

The need for mechanisms to assess the competence and performance of the behavioral health workforce has received increasing attention. This article reviews strategies used in general medicine and other disciplines for assessing trainees and practitioners. The possibilities and limitations of various approaches are reviewed, and the implications for behavioral health are addressed. A conceptual model of competence is presented, and practical applications of this model are reviewed. Finally, guidelines are proposed for building competency assessment protocols for behavioral health.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Behavioral Medicine / education*
  • Behavioral Medicine / standards
  • Benchmarking
  • Clinical Competence*
  • Decision Making, Organizational
  • Educational Measurement
  • Employee Performance Appraisal / methods*
  • Guidelines as Topic
  • Humans
  • Mental Health Services / standards*
  • Models, Organizational
  • Total Quality Management / methods*
  • United States
  • Workforce