Table 6 The external facilitator role in a supportive relationship: potential activities/behaviors per QUERI experiences

   a) Maintains multiple means of contact and accessibility with the ICA.

   b) Provides rapid responses to ICA requests, as feasible.

   c) Provides reassurance and encouragement:

i) Provides information on progress,

ii) Provides cheerleading,

iii) Provides psychological support, and

iv) Enables peer-based social support.

   d) Empowers ICAs – sets the stage for them, gives them permission to do things on their own.

   e) Serves as a "nudge" and a source of external expectation for progress.

   f) Makes required actions quick and easy, when possible.

   g) Mentors and develops skills in the ICA, as needed:

i) Shares knowledge,

ii) Teaches skills,

iii) Enables ICAs to solve their own problems, where feasible, and

iv) Provides role feedback.