What the study found
The adapted ENACT (ENhancing Assessment of Common Therapeutic factors) tool could be used to assess therapeutic skills of non-specialists in low-resource settings, but the authors say it needs structured rater training and contextual adaptation.
Why the authors say this matters
The authors say the study helps address implementation challenges by making the tool manageable with limited resources, time, and raters. They also state that the findings can inform mhGAP (Mental Health Gap Action Programme) training design and delivery, support a more patient-centered approach, and help with curriculum refinement, refresher training, quality improvement, supervision, and policy decisions.
What the researchers tested
The researchers used a sequential, mixed-methods approach to adapt and pilot test ENACT for evaluating therapeutic skills of non-specialists trained in mhGAP workshops. They selected competencies through literature review and focus group discussion, developed and refined a case vignette, adjusted the scoring framework, and then tested feasibility in a workshop setting.
What worked and what didn't
Eight competencies were retained because they were judged relevant, comprehensible, and feasible. Each competency was scored on a four-point ordinal scale, and role-plays were video-recorded and rated by trained raters; the study reports good inter-rater reliability and significant correlations between competencies.
What to keep in mind
The abstract does not describe detailed limitations beyond the need for structured rater training and contextual adaptation. The findings are based on a pilot in an mhGAP workshop setting, so the summary provided does not establish broader performance beyond that context.
Key points
- The ENACT tool was adapted to assess therapeutic skills of non-specialists in low-resource settings.
- The authors say the tool must be paired with structured rater training and contextual adaptation.
- Eight competencies were kept after review for relevance, comprehensibility, and feasibility.
- The study reports good inter-rater reliability and significant correlations between competencies.
- The authors say the findings may inform mhGAP training, supervision, and policy decisions.
Disclosure
- Research title:
- Adapted ENACT tool showed good reliability in low-resource settings
- Authors:
- Asma Humayun, Asma Nisa, Israr Ul Haq, Arooj Najmussaqib, Noor ul Ain Muneeb
- Institutions:
- Government of Pakistan, Division of Program Coordination Planning and Strategic Initiatives, University of the Sciences
- Publication date:
- 2026-01-22
- OpenAlex record:
- View
- Image credit:
- Photo by hamiltonpaviana on Pixabay · Pixabay License
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