A qualitative study on expert perspective for implementing and utilizing non-communicable diseases research findings

Today, all important and influential decisions must be based on the research finding. Research serves as a pioneer and foundation for precise and targeted planning and decision-making. The acceleration of applying and implementing health research finding, particularly in non-communicable diseases (NCDs), is crucial as it relates to the promotion of public health and improving the health and well-being of the population. This requires attention to a knowledge and evidence-based decision-making ecosystem. The present study aims to identify the perspectives of decision-makers in Iran's research system regarding prerequisites, barriers and facilitators affecting the implementation of research findings in the field of non-communicable diseases. This qualitative study employed a purposive sampling method with 21 individuals who met predefined criteria. Interviews were conducted until data saturation was achieved. The interviews were conducted virtually and in person with deputy head of research and technology in medical sciences universities, managers of research development and evaluation, directors of research centers, head of medical information management and scientific resources centers, policymakers, researchers, and experts in knowledge implementation in the NCDs field. Thematic analysis and open coding with the MAXQDA software was employed for data analysis. Subsequently, a survey form was used to gather expert opinions on refining the coding process. Of the participants, 62% were male and 38% were female. Additionally, 52% were deputy head of research and technology, research managers, and directors of research centers, while 38% were policymakers and a few were researchers in NCDs field. The thematic analysis of the 21 interviews resulted in 591 codes, which were ultimately categorized into eight main categories and 56 subcategories. Two categories: "Scientific leadership (Research Railing)", and "Strengthening and developing responsive policies" were identified as basic requirements, Four categories: "Designing, updating and upgrading health information systems", "Designing, compiling and presenting organizational mechanisms", "Information facilitation", and "Provision financial resource and providing an economic platform" were identified as facilitators, while two categories: "Political Barriers" and "Organizational/Trans-organizational challenges" were identified as challenges impacting the implementation of research finding. The study's findings indicate that to implement research finding, overarching policies within the country's research system require Serious action. However, there are challenges in the implementation process that, if ignored, could pose threats. Each identified influencing factor in this study has independent potential to impact. Health system managers and policymakers in the NCDs field can leverage the findings of this study- which align with the expectations of research and technology vice presidents and managers at universities- in their future planning and policymaking related to strengthening a problem-oriented research approach and utilizing implementation science.