Development of an implementation and evaluation strategy for the Australian 'Zero Childhood Cancer' (Zero) Program: a...

Area of Science:

• Implementation Science
• Pediatric Oncology
• Personalized Medicine

Background:

• Effective research program implementation relies on actionable plans considering both scientific and execution aspects.
• The Zero Childhood Cancer Personalised Medicine Program (Zero Program) is a comprehensive initiative for high-risk or relapsed childhood cancers in Australia.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the structure, process, and implementational effects of the Zero Program.
• To evaluate the program's delivery mechanisms and collaborative links among stakeholders.
• To determine the sustainability and overall impact of the personalized medicine program.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods design incorporating rapid ethnography, implementation proformas, and social network analysis.
• Formative evaluations using feedback loops and professional input to identify areas for program tailoring.
• Summative evaluation involving data triangulation and an expert panel to assess integration of implementation strategies.

Main Results:

• The study is currently pre-results, with ongoing data collection and analysis.
• Evaluation will determine the effectiveness of collaborative links and group working on program outcomes.
• The integration of implementation strategies into the program structure will be assessed.

Conclusions:

• The comprehensive evaluation will provide insights into the Zero Program's success and sustainability.
• Findings will inform the refinement and future implementation of personalized medicine programs in pediatric oncology.
• Knowledge translation will be achieved through publications, reports, and presentations to diverse stakeholders.