Implementation science starts by understanding how programs and practices work based on past experience, either from the field, science-based studies, expert opinion, or consensus and then identifying ways to replicate these processes in new settings, at larger scale, or with different populations to achieve similar, positive outcomes. According to the National Implementation Research Network: "It is the study of how a practice that is evidence-based or evidence-informed gets translated to different, more diverse contexts in the real world." 1 In this way, successful implementation connects the dots between evidence and practice.
Working in MCH, there is a growing need to understand how to effectively implement evidence-based practices in different settings and what it takes to move an evidence-based practice from the library or classroom to the field.2
Watch this introductory video from the WDC to learn about the four implementation stages and different types of evidence that form the backbone of making equity-informed choices at each stage:
SET: Dig Deeper
Watch this video about about a new tool that highlights six considerations for centering people with lived experience when making evidence-based decisions:
Trainings from the MCH Navigator and Partners:
Active Implementation Frameworks Overview Videos. These short videos provide an introduction to: Active Implementation Formulas; Evidence-based Practices; Implementation Stages; Implementation Drivers; and PDSA Improvement Cycles.
Implementation Stages Model Learning Module. This module provides an overview of Implementation Stages. Implementation Stages provide guidance to Teams on their journey to implement selected programs and practices. For applied purposes and illustration, the module uses state and local educational systems as context.
Implementation Stages Planning Tool Learning Module. This interactive lesson describes the key functions of the Implementation Stages Planning Tool and high-level activities related to the stages of implementation. After the lesson, you should be able to use the tool to evaluate your stage-based work and create a stage-based action plan using data gathered from the tool. Requires free registration.
Innovative Approaches to Collecting Needs Assessment Data. This video reports on efforts to use innovative mixed-methods approaches to engage and involve families and community members in a statewide needs assessment. This broad-based approach provided opportunities for hundreds if not thousands of Kansans to participate in a statewide needs assessment and to provide a unique lens on issues that helped the state develop a meaningful, responsive, strategic plan to address maternal and child health issues in the state in the coming years.
Implementation Stages Planning Tool. This resource supports the identification of the current stage of implementation, as well as supports planning and improvement by providing: (1) a flow chart to determine stage of implementation; (2) a list of appropriate stage-based activities; and (3) an outline of expected stage-based outcomes.
Hexagon Tool. This planning and evaluation tool works in conjunction with the Six Considerations Planning tool and guides the selection of the appropriate, evidence-based/informed strategies through a six-step exploration process. It can be used in collaboration with your partners to better understand how a new or existing program fits into your existing work, context, and health equity priorities.
The MCH Evidence Center uses Results-Based Accountability (RBA) tools to identify root causes of population-based issues, develop responsive strategies to bring about change, and establish measures that can be quantified, brought to scale, and replicated across population groups. These tools integrate health equity considerations into RBA processes.
Turn-the-Curve (TTC) Strategy Tool. Use this tool to develop new strategies that align with your population needs and advance each NPM. TTC is a quick method to strategically think about your needs assessment data and develop strong measures to assess progress we make in changing the trajectory of your work.
RBA Measurement Tool. Use this tool to develop strong ways to measure your strategies by using a framework to help you move from reporting "what did we do?" to "how well did we do it?" and eventually to "is anyone better off from our efforts" and"“how are they better off?".
This project is supported by the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) under grant number UE8MC25742; MCH Navigator for $225,000/year. This information or content and conclusions are those of the author and should not be construed as the official position or policy of, nor should any endorsements be inferred by HRSA, HHS or the U.S. Government.
