Abstract for: Accelerating system-level reforms in mental healthcare: The role of co-designed system dynamics modelling

This project examines how combining Group Model Building (GMB) and System Dynamics Modelling (SDM) can accelerate system-level reforms in mental healthcare, particularly in addressing the needs of rural and regional communities in Victoria, Australia. While there are recommendations for co-designed systems-level innovations, the resource-intensive nature of co-design, the slow pace of traditional system-level reforms, and the risks of untested policies pose significant challenges. Faced with the challenge of integrating co-designed solutions into mental health services, our work explores the potential of GMB and SDM to bridge the gap between stakeholder engagement and empirical policy-making requirements. Through the development of a 'proof-of-concept' SD model testing co-designed interventions, this research aims to demonstrate a new model of care that improves mental health outcomes. Progress includes a scoping review, a study on GMB's benefits, and pilot studies for model development. The project seeks to contribute to the evidence base for participatory mixed methods approaches in mental healthcare, offering a replicable framework for systemic reform.