Dissemination of an evidence-based telephone-delivered lifestyle intervention: factors associated with successful implementation and evaluation

Abstract

To inform wider-scale dissemination efforts of health behavior change interventions, we need to better understand factors associated with successful implementation and evaluation in nonresearch settings. Using the experience of the Optimal Health Program dissemination (OHP), a 12-month evidence-based telephone-delivered intervention for physical activity, healthy eating, and weight loss, we provide a detailed account according to the reach, efficacy/effectiveness, adoption, implementation, and maintenance (RE-AIM) framework of the supports that were needed to facilitate the delivery and evaluation of the program in an applied community-based primary health care setting. Substantial initial research support including development of data collection procedures, staff training in intervention protocols, and ongoing support for fidelity of data collection and intervention delivery, as well as evaluation and reporting of outcomes was required. The RE-AIM framework can highlight common elements that will require attention from researchers to promote success of programs in applied settings.