An integrated knowledge mobilization approach to substance use health

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Health Services Research
• Knowledge Translation

Background:

• The Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction (CCSA) aims to reduce substance-related harms through national leadership.
• Effective solutions require understanding diverse needs, priorities, and perspectives.
• Partnerships are crucial for acknowledging systemic factors influencing health outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present an integrated knowledge mobilization model developed by CCSA.
• To guide the organization's work in improving substance use health outcomes.
• To foster collaboration and evidence-informed solutions.

Main Methods:

• Engaging key partners with multiple viewpoints to understand context, constraints, and opportunities.
• Identifying barriers to care, social determinants of health, and community assets.
• An iterative process of generating and mobilizing knowledge aligned with partner priorities.

Main Results:

• The model ensures responses are relevant to knowledge gaps and partners' realities.
• It aims to achieve impact while minimizing the risk of harm.
• Outputs include increased awareness, knowledge, information use, and strengthened capacity.

Conclusions:

• This integrated and collaborative approach advances substance use health in Canada.
• Meaningful partner engagement and evaluation are integral to the model.
• The approach is shared to encourage similar practices in developing impactful evidence and resources.