Dynamic adaptation process to implement an evidence-based child maltreatment intervention.

Area of Science:

• Implementation Science
• Public Health Practice
• Organizational Psychology

Background:

• Evidence-based practices (EBPs) often require adaptation during implementation.
• The extent to which core EBP elements can be preserved during local adaptation is not well understood.
• System, policy, and organizational changes are crucial for successful EBP implementation and sustainment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of the Dynamic Adaptation Process (DAP) for implementing EBPs.
• To compare intervention fidelity under the DAP versus implementation as usual (IAU).
• To assess the utility of automated technology for measuring intervention fidelity and client satisfaction.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods study comparing the DAP (n=3) with IAU (n=3) across six California regions.
• The study focused on implementing an EBP to prevent child neglect.
• Data collection included fidelity monitoring, client satisfaction surveys (automated), and qualitative process evaluation.

Main Results:

• The DAP facilitates planned adaptations to EBPs and associated systems.
• Automated technologies show feasibility for assessing intervention fidelity and client satisfaction.
• The DAP approach supports maintaining intervention fidelity while allowing necessary local adjustments.

Conclusions:

• The DAP offers a structured, collaborative method for adapting EBPs to meet local needs.
• It supports intervention, system, and organizational adaptations to enhance fidelity.
• This approach is relevant for diverse public sector service systems aiming for effective EBP implementation.