Using Fidelity Measurement to Assess Quality of Early Psychosis Intervention Services in Ontario

OBJECTIVES: The First Episode Psychosis Services Fidelity Scale (FEPS-FS) is a validated measure of program delivery in relation to international standards. This study assessed fidelity in Ontario programs and the utility of the FEPS-FS for program improvement. METHODS: Assessments were conducted in a volunteer sample of nine early psychosis intervention (EPI) programs. Thirty components of care were each rated on a 5-point scale; a rating of 4 indicates satisfactory performance. Trained assessor teams conducted site visits, and ratings were made by consensus. RESULTS: Program mean fidelity ratings ranged from 3.1 to 4.4 and exceeded 4 in five programs. Across the programs, item mean fidelity ratings ranged from 2.1 to 5 and exceeded 4 for 14 of 30 items. CONCLUSIONS: The FEPS-FS captured variation in program implementation and provided a baseline for measuring change. Additions to the scale are planned to address components of the Ontario EPI standards not covered by the FEPS-FS.