Understanding implementation research
In the recently publish paper "Understanding Implementation Research", Dr Mash from Stellenbosch University and colleagues collaborated with Dr Hirschhorn (Director Ryan Family Center for Globa Primary Care in the Havey Insitute for Global Health) to provide a clear and practical introduction to implementation research (IR) for researchers in primary health care and family medicine and how this discipline can help move forward the goals of effective primary care in many settings. The authors explain the concepts and use of Implementation Research frameworks and core concepts from identifying barriers and facilitators, the design of implementation strategies, measuring key implementation outcomes such as acceptability, fidelity, and sustainability. The paper which reflects the growth of the SU-NU partnership is designed to expand the knowledge and interest of frontline providers and researchers in primary care in the field of global implementation research.