The value of program science to optimize knowledge brokering on infectious diseases for public health

Marissa Becker,Margaret Haworth-Brockman,Yoav Keynan

doi:10.1186/s12889-018-5493-7

Marissa Becker, Margaret Haworth-Brockman + Show 1 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1186/s12889-018-5493-7

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Abstract

BackgroundKnowledge translation (KT) and related terms have variously been defined as process and as products. In this paper we contribute to debates on effective KT, specifically knowledge brokering, by describing an adaptation of Program Science that aligns with the real-world of public health activities.Main abstractWe describe an adaptation of the Program Science framework to our knowledge translation and brokering planning and projects at the National Collaborating Centre for Infectious Diseases. The systematic approach allows for layering of knowledge year to year and translating knowledge from one infectious disease content area to another. Using a recent forum on syphilis outbreaks as an example, we also demonstrate the value of using Program Science to shape the design and delivery of the knowledge brokering event.ConclusionThe use of scientific knowledge to improve public health program design, implementation and evaluation forms the basis for the program science framework. Providing the right public health information to the right audience at the right time can foster long-term outcomes of networks and new partnerships which can potentially improve delivery of public health services.

Highlights

Program science is the systematic application of theoretical and empirical knowledge to optimize the scale, quality and impact of public health programs [9, 10]
The use of scientific knowledge to improve public health program design, implementation and evaluation forms the basis for the program science framework
Knowledge translation and brokering of evidence to support decision-making in public health requires assessment of the knowledge itself, understanding of the audiences and continued engagement

Summary

Conclusion

The use of scientific knowledge to improve public health program design, implementation and evaluation forms the basis for the program science framework. Program Science provides a useful framework to guide knowledge translation work for infectious diseases and public health and allows for the iterative process that is critical for success and responsiveness of public health programs. We describe the adaptation and application of the Program Science framework to NCCID’s work in knowledge brokering. This systematic approach allows for layering of knowledge year to year and translating knowledge from one infectious disease content area to another. Author details 1Centre for Global Public Health, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada. Author details 1Centre for Global Public Health, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada. 2National Collaborating Centre for Infectious Diseases, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada. 3Section of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada. 4Departments of Internal Medicine, Medical Microbiology and Community Health Sciences, Winnipeg, Canada

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