The Role of Qualitative and Mixed Methods in Implementation Research: A Roundtable Discussion Relevant to Social Work

Implementation science (IS) has become increasingly popular as a means of improving health and mental health practices in a timely way (Brownson, Colditz & Proctor, 2017). Although most strongly associated with health care and clinical practice (Chambers et al., 2016), the scope of IS has expanded to include evidence-based interventions in public health and social welfare. With a burgeoning evidence base upon which to draw, implementation research (IR) entails the study of why and how EBIs (evidence-based interventions) are adopted, adapted and ultimately scaled-up in real world settings. An array of factors can inhibit or facilitate implementation, and process as well as outcome are critical domains of study in IR. With numerous conceptual models and theoretical frameworks available to map the terrain of IR (Moulin et al., 2015), IR makes optimal use of mixed (quantitative-qualitative) methods in study designs (Palinkas et al., 2015). Despite its widespread use, however, it remains unclear as to whether IR places any specific requirements or limitations on how qualitative methods are employed, either independently or as part of mixed methods designs.

This proposed roundtable will address this question by examining the role of qualitative methods in IR, both as stand-alone methods and as part of mixed methods designs. Drawing upon the work of an expert panel convened by the National Cancer Institute (QUALRIS, or Qualitative Methods in Implementation Science), speakers will summarize the ‘white paper' findings of the QUALRIS group and offer examples of studies in IR that have successfully used qualitative and mixed methods. Special emphasis will be given to how qualitative/mixed methods are suited to IR in social work practice and policy.

Panelists will include a pioneer in dissemination and implementation research (Proctor), a leader in mixed methods implementation research (Palinkas), the chair of the QUALRIS group (Heurtin-Roberts), a qualitative and mixed methods methodologist (Padgett) and a mixed method implementation scientist focusing on health disparities (Cabassa).