Interagency Collaborative Team Model for Capacity Building to Scale-Up Evidence-Based Practice

Area of Science:

• Implementation Science
• Public Health Practice
• Child Welfare Services

Background:

• Scaling evidence-based practices (EBPs) across service systems is challenging.
• Limited strategic approaches exist for EBP implementation and sustainment.
• The Interagency Collaborative Team (ICT) model was developed to address these gaps, building on the EPIS framework.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the ICT process model.
• To present preliminary qualitative findings on its use for implementing SafeCare®, an evidence-based child neglect intervention.
• To assess challenges and successes in fostering collaboration and capacity for EBP implementation.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative interviews were conducted with stakeholders involved in the EBP implementation.
• Data collection and analysis focused on implementation processes and home visitor experiences.
• The study examined system, organization, and home visitor collaboration under the ICT model.

Main Results:

• Six key implementation issues emerged: stakeholder commitment, leadership, communication, practice fit, negotiation, and early successes.
• These factors highlight the strengths and areas for development within the ICT model.
• Participant interviews provided insights into the practical application of the ICT model.

Conclusions:

• The ICT model facilitated sustained and widespread adoption of SafeCare® in a large county.
• Qualitative findings indicate the ICT model provides robust structural support for EBP implementation.
• The model helps resolve tensions between EBP structure and local context, supporting public health benefits.