Abstract 400: Novel Training In Implementation Science To Accelerate Evidence Into Practice

Abstract

Research Objective: Translating evidence into practice and communities is a complex process that often takes years. The shifting healthcare landscape from volume- to value-based demands learning health systems shift to more rapid uptake of evidence. The field of dissemination and implementation (D&I) science seeks to inform how evidence-based interventions can be successfully adopted, implemented and maintained in health care delivery and community settings. A significant challenge in implementing evidence into practice is finding researchers and the health workforce trained and equipped with the skills to do so in real world settings. This challenge is compounded by the fact that there are limited and highly competitive opportunities for training in D&I. Thus, a curriculum and certificate program, Training in Implementation: Actionable Research Approaches (TIARA) was developed and implemented to provide researchers and providers with skills in D&I. Study Design: Two projects are being implemented regionally across multiple hospitals. Prior to the projects' implementation, TIARA was launched. TIARA consists of four components: 1) completing four training module sessions by a national leader; 2) a pre- and post-knowledge assessment, 3) participation at four community forums on healthcare topics, and 4) compiling a Project Summary assignment. Population Studied: Study participants came from 14 regional hospitals, 4 healthcare payer organizations, 2 state hospital associations, 4 state and local public health departments, and 9 community based organizations, and 3 regional academic institutions. Over 120 individuals participated in the four TIARA training modules. Principal Findings: In late 2019, 16 individuals completed the requirements for, and received, TIARA Certificates. Over 60 percent of participants said their level of D&I expertise increased after taking part in the training. Across all eight competencies in implementation science, participants increased an average of 4 points on a 1-10 point Likert scale. Evaluations of TIARA demonstrated high levels of satisfaction with the program, relevance, and helpfulness of the program for their profession (average of 4.2 on a 1-5 Likert scale). Participants also showed high levels of satisfaction with the content of each of the sessions and frequency of communication (average of 4.6 on 1-5 Likert scale). The TIARA Certificate program contributed to 6 grant submissions, 4 real-world implementation projects, and 4 publications and/or presentations. Conclusions: There is a significant unmet need to expand skills, through both theoretical and practical training, to multiple organizations to reach a broader workforce of researchers, providers, and administrators. TIARA is one promising program to train, support, and encourage these stakeholders.