Poster & Mini-oral COSA 2015 ASM

Building the bridge from discovery-to-delivery: A Community of Practice in Cancer Implementation Science (#156)

Candice Kielly-Carroll 1 , Tim Shaw 1 , Mary Haines 2 , Ann Dadich 3 , Rob Sanson-Fisher 4 , Afaf Girgis 5 , Jane Phillips 6 , Nicole Rankin 7 , Tracy Robinson 8 , Charlotte Pointeaux 1
  1. Research in Implementation Science and eHealth, University of Sydney, Sydney
  2. The Cancer Institute NSW, Sydney
  3. University of Western Sydney, Sydney
  4. University of Newcastle, Newcastle
  5. University of New South Wales, Sydney
  6. University of Technology Sydney, Sydney
  7. Sydney Catalyst, Sydney
  8. University of Canberra, Canberra

Background and aims

It is well recognised that a significant discovery to delivery gap exists with an estimated 17 years from evidence creation to implementation.The Cancer Institute NSW identified a capacity gap in implementation science across the Translational Cancer Research Centres (TCRCs) and engaged the Research in Implementation Science and eHealth (RISe) group to develop a Community of Practice (CoP) in implementation science to increase knowledge, skills and capacity in implementation science.

Method

A global scan of educational approaches to implementation science was conducted and through a consensus process a syllabus was developed. Supported by a dedicated coordinator, a range of face to face and technology enabled activities were developed and tested. These included: journal clubs; expert workshops; webinars; e-newsletters; and the development of an early-mid career researchers (EMCR) network. Ongoing qualitative surveys and quantitative site metrics have been collected to measure the impact of the CoP. A rolling member survey has been used to guide development against the curriculum.

Results

The CoP has successfully delivered an educational and networking program across both rural and metropolitan sites. Over 350 individuals have registered with the community and have participated in over 30 activities. The membership includes: clinicians (23%); researchers (37%); and managers and policy makers (40%). The webinars and expert led-workshops have been particularly successful. Over 30 ECMRs have registered in the ECMR network.

Implications

The CoP has successfully introduced a wide range of individuals and organizations to implementation science. Of particular note has been the active participation and added value of members from outside of oncology. The next phase of the project will focus on evaluating the impact of capacity building on cross-centre collaboration and research with consideration to the future sustainability of the CoP. Challenges that remain include reaching front line clinicians and engaging rural colleagues.