Date of Conferral

11-11-2025

Date of Award

November 2025

Degree

Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)

School

Nursing

Advisor

Catherine Garner

Abstract

This doctor of nursing practice (DNP) project addresses a critical issue in outpatient mental health care: transportation barriers faced by adult mental health patients, particularly older adults. These barriers contribute to high no-show rates, which disrupt care continuity, worsen mental health outcomes, and increase reliance on emergency services. The project proposes the implementation of a structured transportation assistance program to enhance appointment adherence and reduce missed visits resulting from transportation challenges. The practice-focused question guiding this project is: In adult mental health patients with transportation barriers, does implementing a structured transportation assistance program improve appointment adherence rates over a 12-week period compared to no formal transportation support? The project’s analytical strategies include a logic model framework for planning and evaluating the program, with key metrics such as no-show rates, patient satisfaction, and cost savings from reduced emergency department visits. The project will use both formative and summative evaluations to assess the program’s effectiveness. Findings from the implementation of this program are expected to demonstrate that addressing transportation barriers can significantly enhance patient adherence to scheduled appointments, reduce operational inefficiencies, and promote more equitable access to care. The nursing implications include improving patient-centered care, reducing health disparities, and contributing to positive social change, particularly for marginalized populations facing systemic inequities. This program aligns with the organization’s mission to promote equity, inclusion, and quality care.

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