2.4 Data Collection
Two clinical psychologists (EB and NB), trained in qualitative
interviewing, conducted the telephone interviews throughout 2012. The
psychologists alternated roles, with one serving as the lead interviewer
and the other serving as back-up, taking notes and ensuring all
interview topics were covered. A research assistant observed all
interviews. The initial interview asked close-ended questions such as
the clinician’s department and length of VA employment. We then began
the second part of the interview by asking prescribing clinicians to
describe their overall management plan for a veteran with PTSD. (See
Table 1 for topics of the Interview Guide most pertinent to this study.)
Other interview topics included knowledge of the CPG and access to
evidence-based PTSD psychotherapies. Professional transcriptionists
produced verbatim transcripts and the research staff performed quality
checks prior to analysis.