Advancing health equity through the development of a scholars training program in implementation science

Area of Science:

• Implementation Science
• Health Equity Research
• Transdisciplinary Research

Background:

• Achieving health equity is crucial for addressing disparities rooted in social, economic, and racial injustices.
• The field of implementation science requires enhanced transdisciplinary tools, processes, and workforce capacity for health equity research.
• Developing and training scholars from underrepresented groups is vital for advancing health equity research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and pilot a robust, actionable model for mentoring and training to advance health equity in implementation science.
• To create a training program informed by the needs and priorities of diverse scholars.
• To build capacity within an implementation science workforce that centers on equity.

Main Methods:

• Mixed-methods approach including concept mapping with 69 researchers and interviews with 20 leaders and trainees.
• Piloted a 2.5-day training program for 17 scholars (100% underrepresented in science, 88% women) using active learning principles.
• Incorporated pre-program surveys to tailor content based on scholar priorities.

Main Results:

• Concept mapping identified key competencies: community engagement, equity-relevant methods, cultural humility, and mentoring.
• Training included community-led presentations, historical perspectives, and equity-focused methods, co-led by an academic-community partnership.
• Scholars reported strengths including mentorship, a supportive environment, diverse perspectives, and engaging discussions.

Conclusions:

• A user-informed, data-driven approach successfully designed an implementation science training prioritizing diverse scholars' interests.
• The study identified essential curriculum competencies and processes to build a health equity-focused implementation science workforce.
• The developed model provides a framework for future training initiatives aimed at advancing health equity in implementation science.