Making Prevention Primary in the U.S. Navy: Developing a Data-Driven Prevention Strategy

Introduction: The U.S. Navy has made strides in response efforts for mental and behavioral health issues faced by Sailors; however, primary prevention of such issues has been hampered by siloed approaches for implementation of prevention efforts and relevant data for assessment of these efforts. This led to creation of a comprehensive, data-driven primary prevention strategy for addressing Sailors needs. This presentation describes the approach for incorporation of predictive data analytics in a comprehensive primary prevention strategy, key lines of efforts within the strategy, and emerging tools and piloting efforts within the approach.

Methods: Current prevention needs were examined and lines of effort for the prevention strategy were determined. The process included examination of existing trainings in terms of alignment with best practices in prevention and availability of impact data; existing data for assessing behavioral health issues and related indicators of those behaviors; and recommendations with the way-ahead for prevention efforts.

Results: A primary prevention strategy was developed that focuses on three lines of effort 1) leveraging data analytics 2) evidence-based policies, programs, and practices and 3) establishing a behavior learning continuum across Sailors’ careers. This approach includes data aggregation across historically disparate data sets to capture a range of Sailor information, including personnel, operational, and mental and behavioral health data. Data is being fed into a dashboard prototype which utilizes a user-friendly interface to provide a common operating picture for Commanders around areas of risk or protection within the ship environment. Predictive analytic capabilities are being piloted within the system through a human factors analysis model that examines factors associated with destructive behaviors such as sexual assault, substance abuse, and suicide to better predict risk and determine potential intervention strategies. Additionally, various pilots are being implemented to assess effectiveness of prevention interventions within the Navy context aimed at building resiliency and reducing risk factors for destructive behaviors. Finally, Sailor career cycle areas were identified and ongoing analysis is identifying key touchpoints within the cylce for infusing primary prevention strategies.

Conclusion: The Navy has developed and is actively implementing components of a multipronged prevention strategy that utilizes a large data repository and predictive analytics to inform areas of risk for Sailors and evidence informed training strategies throughout Sailor’s careers. Ongoing monitoring and evaluation efforts with strategy components will allow for assessment of desired outcomes of more resilient Sailors.