Developing strategies to improve patient engagement among young people accessing mental health services at SCARF, Chennai: An experience-based co-design approach

Background: Experience-Based Co-design (EBCD) is a participatory action research technique aimed at enhancing the experiences of both service users and service providers within healthcare services. Hence, the aim was to develop strategies to improve engagement of youth with mental health services being delivered at Chennai, India Method: We adopted a modified EBCD method involving three phases (data collection, designing strategies and implementation) spread across six stages. Starting from stage-1 interviews with service users and providers to identify factors that may lead young service users to disengage from treatment, followed by group interactions undertaken separately with service providers and users to pinpoint key areas for improvement. This also included a co-design process with all stakeholders, where solutions were refined using SMART criteria and rated on a scale of 1-5. Finally stage involved a meeting with institution management to deliberate and decide on the plan for implementation of the generated solutions. Results: Despite some challenges, EBCD was successfully implemented at Schizophrenia Research Foundation(SCARF) in Youth Mental Health Department, Chennai, India. Service users, providers, and stakeholders found it well-received. Key findings included the need for follow-up reminders and improved information sharing on mental health issues, separate space for young people and treatment plans. Empowering service users emerged as a significant benefit. Conclusion: EBCD was a promising methodology for service improvement and empowering service users. It identified crucial areas for enhancement and empowered the service users by involving them in the decision-making process, ultimately contributing to improved engagement and satisfaction with mental health services.