Enhancing Prevention: Standardizing the Review of Innovative Programs – A Wyoming Approach

This toolkit supports Wyoming’s updated process for reviewing and approving innovative prevention strategies that may not yet be evidence-based but are responsive to specific community needs. Developed through a collaboration between the Wyoming Department of Health and Omni Institute, the toolkit equips prevention staff and local leaders with the tools to propose, evaluate, and implement new programs using a standardized, transparent process. Aligned with SAMHSA’s Strategic Prevention Framework, it includes application materials, scoring tools, and communication protocols to ensure that all programs—whether established or emerging—are evidence-informed, culturally relevant, and appropriate for local contexts. The toolkit reflects lessons learned and best practices from a statewide effort launched in May 2024 and aims to balance innovation with accountability and effectiveness.