Abstract / Summary
Abstract Background Youth in Canada continue to face significant barriers to accessing mental health care, particularly in rural communities where access to specialized services, mental health literacy and stigma remain ongoing challenges. However, evidence regarding the implementation of mental health services in underserved regions remains limited. This study used the RE-AIM framework to evaluate the implementation of the Accès Santé Jeunesse Péninsule Acadienne, a rural Francophone community-based program designed to provide mental health support to youth living in the Acadian Peninsula, a rural region in New Brunswick, Canada. Methods A multimethod study design was employed. Data were collected in two phases between April and July 2022 and included administrative data and semi-structured interview with program staff and community partners (N = 11). Interviews explored the RE-AIM (i.e., reach, effectiveness, adoption, implementation, and maintenance) dimensions. Administrative data informed program characteristics and service use. Interviews were analyzed using a deductive thematic analysis approach based on the RE-AIM framework, followed by a cross-sectional comparison across time points. Results Staff participants (n = 6) had an average of 20 years of professional experience, while community partners (n = 5) averaged 12 years of professional experience. Administrative data indicated that 178 youth accessed services between July 2021 and March 2023. Service utilization was the highest among youth aged 11–25, whereas fewer youth aged 26–30 and fewer parents access services than anticipated. Key facilitators of implementation included flexible referral processes, service mobility, inclusive eligibility criteria, and strong partnerships between local partners. Participants also emphasized the importance of youth engagement and social support. Reported barriers included limited human and financial resources, low program visibility, and geographical challenges. Participants further identified sustainability and ongoing collaboration as critical considerations for long-term success. Conclusions Finding suggests that mobile community-based mental health services can be successfully implemented in rural Francophone communities and may improve accessibility and continuity of care for youth. Continued investment in community engagement, and sustainable funding is essential to support long-term implementation.