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The researchers’ role in knowledge translation: a realist evaluation of the development and implementation of diagnostic pathways for cancer in two UK localities

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Banks, Jon, Wye, Lesley, Hall, Nicola, Rooney, James, Walter, Fiona, Hamilton, Willie, Gjini, Ardiana and Rubin, Greg (2017) The researchers’ role in knowledge translation: a realist evaluation of the development and implementation of diagnostic pathways for cancer in two UK localities. Health Research Policy and Systems. ISSN 1478-4505 (In Press)

Item Type: Article

Abstract

Abstract
Background
In examining an initiative to develop and implement new cancer diagnostic pathways in two English localities, this paper evaluates ‘what works’ and examines the role of researchers in facilitating knowledge translation amongst teams of local clinicians and policymakers.
Methods
Using realist evaluation with a mixed methods case study approach, we conducted documentary analysis of meeting minutes and pathway iterations to map pathway development. We interviewed 14 participants to identify the contexts, mechanisms and outcomes (CMOs) that led to successful pathway development and implementation. Interviews were analysed thematically and four CMO configurations were developed.
Results
One site produced three fully implemented pathways while the other produced two that were partly implemented. In explaining the differences, we found that a respected, independent, well-connected leader modelling partnership-working who facilitates a local, stable group that agree about the legitimacy of the data and project (context) can empower local teams to become sufficiently autonomous (mechanism) to develop and implement research-based pathways (outcome). Although both teams designed relevant, research-based cancer pathways, the research team assisted where the pathways were successfully implemented while in the other the research team drove the initiative.
Discussion
Based on our study findings, local stakeholders can apply local and research knowledge to develop and implement research-based pathways. However, success will depend on how academics empower local teams to create autonomy. After re-packaging and translating research for local circumstances, identifying fertile environments with the right elements for implementation and developing collaborative relationships with local leaders, crucially academics then have to step back.
Keywords
Knowledge translation; realist evaluation; qualitative research; diagnostic pathways for cancer

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More Information

Depositing User: Nicola Hall

Identifiers

Item ID: 8419
ISSN: 1478-4505
URI: http://sure.sunderland.ac.uk/id/eprint/8419

Users with ORCIDS

ORCID for Nicola Hall: ORCID iD orcid.org/0000-0002-0216-512X

Catalogue record

Date Deposited: 24 Nov 2017 09:32
Last Modified: 16 May 2019 07:30

Contributors

Author: Nicola Hall ORCID iD
Author: Jon Banks
Author: Lesley Wye
Author: James Rooney
Author: Fiona Walter
Author: Willie Hamilton
Author: Ardiana Gjini
Author: Greg Rubin

University Divisions

Faculty of Health Sciences and Wellbeing

Subjects

Sciences > Health Sciences
Social Sciences

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