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

Assessing the long-term impact of community-engaged research (CEnR) programs remains a significant challenge in translational science, such as those conducted by Clinical and Translational Science Awards (CTSAs). The Translational Science Benefits Model (TSBM) is a framework designed to evaluate impact across four health and social domains (clinical/medical, community, economic, and political/legislative). TSBM offers a comprehensive framework for evaluating CEnR projects, as it extends beyond short-term outcomes to highlight distal impacts and sustainable benefits. Progress reports from three Cincinnati CTSA CEnR programs (Community Leaders Institute [CLI; n = 170], Community Health Grant [CHG; n = 82], and Partnership Development Grant [PDG; n = 21]) completed between 2010 and 2023 were coded by three reviewers using the TSBM. As expected, CEnR programs primarily demonstrated community & public health benefits. Economic, policy, and clinical benefits were also identified, further amplifying the impact of this work. The adoption of frameworks like the TSBM could lead to a more standardized approach for evaluating the impact of CEnR programs and facilitate comparisons across CTSAs. Future studies that track the impact of CEnR programs on health and social systems could provide valuable insights into the long-term benefits of these initiatives.