Comprehensive program evaluation for strengthening military mental readiness

Abstract: Ongoing behavioral health conditions significantly contribute to non-deployability among United States Army service members. To improve readiness for deployment, the Army implemented the Holistic Health and Fitness Program (H2F) in 2020. This Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) project conducted a program evaluation of an Army combat brigade’s H2F mental domain implementation, using the context, input, product, process (CIPP) model, to (1) provide a comprehensive understanding of how current programming aligns with the goals of H2F, (2) identify gaps in implementation, and (3) suggest evidence-based strategies to improve efficacy. Key findings included: lack of standardized outcome measurement with a validated tool, poor mental domain activities integration into the unit training calendar, and lack of clarity in program structure and curriculum. Optimization strategies included defining the mental construct, use of a validated tool, gathering baseline data with re-evaluation throughout the training cycle, regular mental domain integration into unit operations, and improving engagement from key stakeholders. More rigorous research is needed to clarify mental wellness constructs, outcome measures, and programming.

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