Implementation science in healthcare: Introduction and perspective

Z Evid Fortbild Qual Gesundhwes. 2015;109(2):97-102. doi: 10.1016/j.zefq.2015.02.014. Epub 2015 Apr 15.

Abstract

Implementation science is the scientific study of the methods to promote the uptake of research findings into routine healthcare in clinical, organisational, or policy contexts. The presence of gaps between knowledge and practice is well documented and a range of strategies is available to overcome these gaps. To optimize their impact, it is recommended that implementation strategies are tailored to the target population, setting and goals for improvement. Themes for future research in the field are: implementation of personalized medicine, the economics of implementation, knowledge implementation in various health professions, patient involvement in implementation, and a better understanding of the determinants of implementation. Addressing these challenges requires dedicated training programs, research funding, and networks for effective collaboration with stakeholders in healthcare.

Keywords: Implementation science; Implementierungsforschung; Versorgungsforschung; evidence-based practice; evidenzbasierte Praxis; health services research.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cooperative Behavior
  • Delivery of Health Care / organization & administration*
  • Germany
  • Health Plan Implementation / organization & administration*
  • Humans
  • Interdisciplinary Communication
  • Organizational Objectives
  • Science / organization & administration*
  • Translational Research, Biomedical / organization & administration*