How are qualitative methods used in implementation science research? A scoping review protocol

This systematic scoping review will describe the use of qualitative methods in implementation research in health.

Implementation science is an expanding field of study that investigates the integration of evidence-based practices into real world settings. Qualitative methods are useful for providing an in-depth understanding of implementation strategies and outcomes from the perspectives of stakeholders such as policy makers, health practitioners, and individuals targeted by health interventions. Qualitative research methods are increasingly used in implementation research. A synthesis of the applications of qualitative methods is lacking, although it is critical for understanding how qualitative methods have been used to date and identifying areas for improvement.

The review will include implementation research studies that collect primary data using one or more qualitative methods, alone or with quantitative methods. Studies must assess implementation research issues in health but will not be restricted by the type of setting, health issue, or country of origin.

The search for relevant studies will be restricted to articles published in English from 2006 to the present that are found in 46 prominent medical and public health journals that publish research in implementation science. Multiple reviewers will screen articles to identify those that meet the inclusion criteria. Data extraction will involve a structured and systematic method with categories for descriptive characteristics of studies, health topics, qualitative methods for data collection and analysis, implementation science outcomes and issues explored, and implementation science frameworks applied.