Innovations in framework synthesis as a systematic review method.

Area of Science:

• Health services research
• Systematic review methodology
• Qualitative and mixed-methods research

Background:

• Framework synthesis is a systematic review method increasingly used in healthcare research.
• It is adapted from framework analysis and can employ qualitative or mixed-methods approaches.
• Its application is relevant for addressing complex health care practice and policy questions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To demonstrate the spectrum of approaches available for framework synthesis.
• To highlight how the choice of approach depends on the status of existing theory.
• To underscore the role of stakeholder involvement in nascent theoretical contexts.

Main Methods:

• The article outlines a range of framework synthesis approaches.
• Approaches are categorized based on the degree to which theory is tentative, emergent, refined, or established.
• Consideration is given to the scale and heterogeneity of literature when theory is absent.

Main Results:

• The selection of a framework synthesis approach is contingent upon the alignment with existing theories.
• Stakeholder engagement is beneficial for navigating topic complexity when theory is less developed.
• A spectrum of methods exists, offering flexibility in application.

Conclusions:

• Framework synthesis is a versatile systematic review method adaptable to various theoretical landscapes.
• The optimal approach balances theoretical congruence with the management of research literature.
• Methodological choices should be guided by the nature of existing theory and stakeholder input.