Using the translational science benefits model to evaluate the impact of community-engaged programs

Area of Science:

• Translational Science
• Community-Engaged Research (CEnR)
• Health Outcomes Research

Background:

• Evaluating the long-term impact of community-engaged research (CEnR) programs is challenging in translational science.
• Clinical and Translational Science Awards (CTSAs) conduct CEnR programs with diverse outcomes.
• A standardized framework is needed to assess the multifaceted benefits of CEnR.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the long-term impact of CEnR programs using the Translational Science Benefits Model (TSBM).
• To assess benefits across clinical/medical, community, economic, and political/legislative domains.
• To demonstrate the comprehensive impact of CEnR initiatives within CTSA programs.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the Translational Science Benefits Model (TSBM) framework for impact assessment.
• Coded progress reports from three Cincinnati CTSA CEnR programs (CLI, CHG, PDG) spanning 2010-2023.
• Employed three independent reviewers for consistent application of the TSBM framework.

Main Results:

• CEnR programs predominantly yielded community and public health benefits.
• Identified significant economic, policy, and clinical/medical benefits, extending beyond immediate outcomes.
• Demonstrated the capacity of TSBM to capture distal and sustainable impacts of CEnR.

Conclusions:

• The TSBM framework provides a comprehensive approach to evaluating CEnR impact.
• Standardized evaluation using TSBM can facilitate comparisons across different CTSA programs.
• Tracking CEnR impact on health and social systems offers insights into long-term benefits.