Perceptions of facilitators, barriers and solutions when preparing to implement a home visiting program in Sweden: a...

Area of Science:

• Implementation Science
• Early Childhood Development
• Public Health

Background:

• Growing awareness of early childhood development programs' importance for sustainable societies.
• Knowledge gap exists regarding effective program implementation strategies.
• Successful implementation hinges on addressing implementation drivers (competency, organization, leadership) throughout all phases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe cross-sectoral operational workgroups' perceptions of facilitators, barriers, and solutions.
• Focus on implementation drivers during the preparation phase of an evidence-based early childhood home visiting program.

Main Methods:

• Mixed-methods approach using quantitative and qualitative data from 24 participants in 5 groups.
• Workshops utilized a structured method informed by Motivational Interviewing principles and an implementation drivers framework.
• Card sorting of implementation driver statements, followed by action plan development and deductive qualitative content analysis.

Main Results:

• Identification of facilitators, barriers, unknowns, and solutions across implementation driver subcategories.
• Key facilitators included a competent, confident workforce and enthusiasm.
• Key barriers involved unclear roles, responsibilities, and insufficient articulation of local vision and goals.

Conclusions:

• Advances scientific understanding of translating evidence-based early childhood programs into practice using an implementation drivers framework.
• Identified facilitators, barriers, and solutions in the preparation phase using a novel tool.
• Provides valuable insights for decision-makers and organizations implementing similar initiatives for sustainable development goals.