Development, Research, and Implementation of the Psychosocial Group Intervention Op Koers: Lessons Learned

Abstract

Objective: This article aims to share the lessons we have learned during 25 years of development, research, and implementation related to a psychosocial group intervention for children with chronic illness and their families called Op Koers (“On Track” in English). Method: Using the National Institutes of Health Stage Model for Behavioral Intervention Development and the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research, we critically appraise the different stages of our activities. Over the years, we used basic research to create and modify intervention modules for different populations. Op Koers was pilot-tested several times, and larger efficacy studies revealed that it was effective in improving coping skills and emotional functioning. It has become a part of usual care at the authors’ institutions and has been disseminated throughout the Netherlands.Results: We derived important lessons regarding the intervention’s characteristics, the inner and outer settings, individual characteristics, the implementation processes, and related research. Future efforts may be directed toward continuous improvement of the intervention and its successful lasting implementation. Conclusions: Op Koersis one of the few psychosocial interventions that has been both extensively studied and implemented. The main factor in this achievement is the close collaboration between, and the perseverance of, clinical care and research departments.