Implementation strategies and outcomes

Abstract

Implementation strategies have been defined as methods or techniques that are used to enhance the adoption, implementation and sustainability of evidence-based practices in healthcare and other settings. An overview of some taxonomies that categorize different types of implementation strategies is provided. The chapter also deals with the matching of determinants with the appropriate strategies, which represents a considerable challenge in implementation science. Some tools and methods to facilitate this matching process are described. Implementation outcomes, defined as the effects of deliberate and purposive actions to implement evidence-based practices, are also addressed. They are distinct from patient or population outcomes. Two commonly used implementation outcome taxonomies are described.