The core functions and forms paradigm throughout EPIS: designing and implementing an evidence-based practice with...

Area of Science:

• Implementation Science
• Public Health
• Psychology

Background:

• Implementing evidence-based practices (EBPs) in new settings often faces challenges with maintaining fidelity.
• Existing frameworks struggle to identify appropriate targets for fidelity during adaptation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and apply the Core Functions and Forms paradigm to guide adaptation decisions within the Exploration, Preparation, Implementation, and Sustainment (EPIS) framework.
• To demonstrate how this paradigm can support a shift from prioritizing form fidelity to also considering function fidelity.

Main Methods:

• Applied the Core Functions-Forms paradigm during the Exploration and Preparation phases of the EPIS framework for two EBPs.
• Developed functions-forms matrices to map intervention components (forms) to their essential processes (functions).
• Contrasted adaptation decisions prioritizing either form or function fidelity.

Main Results:

• The Core Functions-Forms paradigm offers a structured approach to adaptation decisions within the EPIS framework.
• Functions-forms matrices visually represent the relationship between intervention components and their intended impact.
• The study highlights a conceptual shift towards prioritizing function fidelity alongside form fidelity.

Conclusions:

• The Core Functions-Forms paradigm can guide adaptation across all EPIS phases, fostering more robust fidelity to function.
• This framework empowers interventionists to select appropriate fidelity referents beyond mere protocol adherence.
• Utilizing this paradigm can lead to more effective and adaptable EBPs in diverse settings.