PURPOSE: Data collection in community organizations can be challenging, but important for evaluative initiatives as well as for therapeutic purposes, such as for organizations engaged in measurement-based care. This study tested the impact of an online measurement data management platform (OMDMP) on mental health assessment response rates at a community-based Sexual Assault crisis center. We examined whether implementing the OMDMP improved client assessment participation in mental health assessment questionnaires compared to manual data collection methods. Materials and Methods: Using a pre-post design, we analyzed data from two time periods: pre-pandemic (manual assessments) and mid-pandemic (OMDMP assessments). Data included clients' mental health assessments, using standardized tools such as the DASS-21 and IES-R.
RESULTS: Our analysis revealed a significant increase in the rate of clients completing at least one mental health assessment, rising from 45% (manual) to 71% after the introduction of the OMDMP. We also found that the OMDMP prompted clients to complete their assessments generally on time, contributing to effective use of assessments as a component of measurement-based care.
DISCUSSION: Although this improvement demonstrates clear benefits for data collection in a community setting, challenges remain in ensuring both pre- and posttest completion. While online tools can enhance organizational capacity for self-evaluation and improve client participation in measurement-based care, attention is still needed to address gaps in the data collection process.
CONCLUSION: We discuss the successes and barriers encountered during the implementation of the OMDMP and its potential implications for social work practice.
