Optimizing Translation of Health Research into Practice: A systematic
review of reviews
Abstract
Abstract Rationale, Aims, and Objectives Effective translation of
knowledge that is generated from health research into clinical practice
has the potential to enhance the quality of care, health services
delivery, and its cost-effectiveness. Critical barriers limiting
translation of health research into practice are embedded both at the
individual and the organizational level. An understanding of the
embedded facilitators and barriers will enable findings from health
research to be implemented into practice in a timely way. This
systematic review aims to synthesize evidence from existing reviews
about barriers and facilitators that influence the uptake of health
research findings into clinical practice. Method A systematic review was
conducted by following PRISMA guidelines. The PubMed, EMBASE, SCOPUS,
Web of Sciences, and CINAHL databases were searched to identify review
papers published from inception to February 2020. The innovative care
for chronic conditions was the analytical framework for data analysis.
Results The search yielded ten publications. Translation of new evidence
was limited predominantly by individual-related issues and less
frequently organizational factors. Inadequate knowledge and skills of
individuals to conduct, organize, utilize, and appraise research
literature, and lack of resources were the primary individual and
organizational challenges. This review also discloses mistrust by
policymakers about the potential of research to translate into practice,
affecting both the development of health policies and also systematic
public investments for research programs. A sizable proportion of
mistrust by the policymakers stems from their lack of knowledge for
understanding research methods and limited skills in comparing research
outcomes. To circumvent this barrier, identification and partnering with
policymakers and health professionals at all stages of the research
process, is critical. Conclusions Despite the challenges affecting the
translation of research into practice, utilization of research evidence
is critical to improving health services delivery and outcomes.
Keywords: policymakers, healthcare professionals, evidence translation