Summary:

Lessons learned about the effective operationalization of champions as an implementation strategy: results from a qualitative process evaluation of a pragmatic trial

While evidence shows that champions can effectively support implementation efforts in some circumstances, little has been reported on how to operationalize this role optimally in different settings, or on the specific pathways through which champions enact change. This secondary qualitative analysis of data from a pragmatic trial identified a clinician champion who demonstrated a sustained commitment to implementation activities and exhibited engagement, influence, credibility, and capacity as a key factor associated with improved outcomes, and offers insight into the context-specific mechanisms through which champions enact practice change.

Authors: Bunce, Arwen E; Gruß, Inga; Davis, James V; Cowburn, Stuart; Cohen, Deborah; Oakley, Jee; Gold, Rachel