The Rapid Start Compendium showcases a range of best practices and service delivery models that can facilitate the delivery of effective Rapid Start services in diverse RWHAP-funded provider settings.
Each section of the Compendium describes best practices and key considerations for providers who wish to adopt Rapid Start as a standard of care or improve existing Rapid Start processes. Though not all best practices will be applicable to all providers, the contents and examples given here can be adapted for use in diverse settings.
This section provides an overview of Rapid Start service delivery structures and practices. It begins by describing the key steps involved in the Rapid Start visit workflow and then introduces the staff roles and structures typically included in Rapid Start service delivery models. Read more about Workflow on pages 14-28.
This section describes best practices for providers to consider when preparing to provide and sustain Rapid Start services, including ways to approach the planning process, building buy-in from organizational leadership, staff champions, staff competency, external partnerships, and cost considerations for Rapid Start implementation and sustainment. Read more about Planning on pages 29-40.
Providers reported that certain aspects of their clinic’s organizational culture have facilitated the successful implementation of Rapid Start, including staff knowledge and beliefs, flexibility and fluid staff coordination, and open communication to foster a client-centered environment. Read more about Culture on pages 41-44
Cost should not be a barrier to receipt of Rapid Start services. This section highlights ways RWHAP and non-RWHAP funds have been leveraged to secure payment for Rapid Start services. Read more about Payment on pages 45-48
RWHAP recipients are key players in making Rapid Start interventions feasible for providers to implement. Many RWHAP recipients support Rapid Start through funding for direct services, training, and infrastructure development. This section describes the best practices at the jurisdiction-level that promote the adoption of Rapid Start services throughout their provider network. Read more about Support on pages 49-53
This section describes data collection methods and continuous quality improvement (CQI) best practices used by providers to routinely monitor the successes of their Rapid Start services and to improve. Read more about CQI on pages 54-57
Providers used client-centered practices and prioritized care delivery systems that promoted client comfort and ease of access to treatment. This section features staff and client insights into the experiences a clinic provides when implementing Rapid Start services. Read more about Client Needs on pages 58-61
