Examples
Worked examples
- Is an instance
An implementation study tests CFIR-informed strategies for scaling an evidence-based screening programme across hospitals.
- Is an instance
A trial includes implementation outcomes (fidelity, acceptability, sustainability) alongside clinical outcomes.
Counter-examples
Looks similar, but isn't
- Not an instance
Calling a dissemination plan 'implementation science' without testing implementation strategies.
- Not an instance
Treating implementation as an afterthought rather than a scientific question.
Editorial commentary
Implementation science emerged in the 2000s as a recognised field, particularly through the journal Implementation Science (founded 2006) and the US NIH Dissemination and Implementation Research framework. It develops and tests strategies for embedding evidence-based practices in real-world settings, attending to context, organisational change, behaviour change, fidelity, scale-up and sustainability. Foundational frameworks include the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR), the RE-AIM framework, and Normalisation Process Theory. Implementation science overlaps with translational research's T3-T4 phases but is methodologically distinct.
References
- Damschroder LJ et al. 'CFIR' Implementation Science 2009. Glasgow RE et al. 'Evaluating the public health impact of interventions: RE-AIM framework' American Journal of Public Health 1999.
Also known as
Implementation research · D&I research (dissemination and implementation)
Machine-readable encodings
Use in your systems
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