Developing Evidence-Based Practices: Lessons Learned from Implementing a Collaborative, Cross-Agency Substance Use...

Area of Science:

• Social Work Research
• Implementation Science
• Program Evaluation

Background:

• Social workers' active involvement is crucial for practice-based research.
• Implementation frameworks guide research processes and data collection.
• Challenges in research design and organizational structures can impede progress.

Purpose of the Study:

• To document experiences from a research project emphasizing social worker participation.
• To identify facilitators and barriers in conducting practice-based research with social workers.
• To evaluate the utility of the Active Implementation Framework (AIF) in this context.

Main Methods:

• Data collected via multiple sources including meeting minutes, guidance session notes, and focus group interviews.
• The Active Implementation Framework (AIF) guided the data collection and analysis.
• Qualitative data from social workers and project management were analyzed.

Main Results:

• Social workers require pre-program research training and dedicated reflection time.
• Successful intervention delivery (e.g., Me & my Family) necessitates interdisciplinary cooperation and academic staff.
• Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) methods presented significant implementation difficulties.
• Organizational silos hindered family recruitment efforts.

Conclusions:

• Managerial support, evidence-based practice interest, and well-educated staff are vital for research integration.
• Research design must align with client needs.
• Continuous coaching, consultation, and feedback are essential when using the AIF framework.