PPCQN: Transformative & Evidence-based Approaches to Mental health & Substance use Screening (TEAMSS)

The AAP Pediatric Primary Care Quality Network engaged pediatricians and multi-disciplinary teams in a virtual learning network to identify, evaluate, and ensure appropriate screening for substance use and mental health concerns in adolescent patients.

About the Project

Project core components included the use of quality improvement methods and clinician training focused on improving provider knowledge and confidence on appropriate screening and follow-up. The Academy employed the Institute for Healthcare Improvement Model for Improvement framework, and practice sites conducted Plan-Do-Study-Act (PDSA) rapid cycle testing to assess and implement practice and physician level changes. Additionally, this multidisciplinary approach included recommended interventions developed by substance use and mental health experts at the AAP and incorporated recommendations in the AAP Blueprint for Youth Suicide Prevention.

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Project Leadership

Physician Leaders 
Cheryl Courtlandt, MD – Quality Improvement Coach
Ulfat Shaikh, MD, MPH, MS – Project Leader

AAP Staff
Anna Correa, MPH
Jennifer Monti, PhD
Brittany Jennings, MHA
Jessie Leffelman
Jenna Brown

Project Time Period

Spring 2024 - Spring 2025

Project Aims & Measurement

The goal of this project is to leverage quality improvement techniques and clinical education to improve substance use screening and appropriate follow-up, as well as improve screening for depression, anxiety, and suicide risk in adolescent patients aged 12-18 seen for a well child visit.

For full details on the TEAMSS measurement strategy, click here to see the TEAMSS Change Package.

Project Results

The TEAMSS project concluded in Spring 2025 with areas of key success, high participant satisfaction ratings, and recommendations for those seeking to undertake a similar QI project.

Click here to access the TEAMSS Change Package, designed by national project leadership with the goal of presenting a collection of tools, interventions, resources, lessons learned, and best practices that primary care teams can use as they work to improve substance use and mental health care for adolescents.

This project is made possible through the generous support of Elevance Health Foundation.