Commentary On “Optimizing intervention dissemination at scale: A qualitative study of multi-sector partner organization experiences”

This research addresses a critical implementation science challenge: the effective dissemination of evidence-based interventions across diverse sectors. By examining dissemination at a state-wide level, it offers insights into overcoming barriers and optimizing strategies for large-scale adoption, particularly in contexts where coordination across multiple organizations is necessary.        

The study focuses on the dissemination of the TransformUs program, a physical activity intervention targeting primary schools in Victoria, Australia. It investigates the experiences and perceptions of partner organizations involved in promoting the program. Some key findings were that barriers and facilitators within  organizations differentially impacted the uptake of TransformUs (i.e., juggling competing priorities), tailored implementation support helped with effective dissemination, and regular communication and feedback contributed to positive research–practice experiences. The authors highlight how collaboration with state-level education, health, and physical activity sectors can help broaden reach, leverage policy alignment, and support schools in adopting new initiatives.

While the authors focus on enhancing dissemination through frequent updates and multi-sectoral partnerships, further implications could include the potential for predictive analytics in targeting dissemination efforts. By using data-driven approaches, implementation scientists could identify patterns in program adoption and engagement across schools, allowing for customized support and communication strategies tailored to specific needs and barriers. Additionally, the insights gained from this large-scale dissemination effort could inform similar strategies for interventions in other sectors, such as public health or community-based mental health programs, where scalability and sector alignment are critical. Moreover, as this study demonstrates the value of using a theory-based framework (RE-AIM) in evaluating dissemination effectiveness, future interventions could incorporate these principles even earlier, using them as design criteria for developing program strategies. Embedding these principles during program conception could enhance the likelihood of adoption by aligning goals and expectations with dissemination needs from the outset.

This study offers valuable insights into large-scale dissemination that can extend beyond the context of physical activity interventions. By addressing structural challenges, fostering consistent communication, and suggesting iterative improvements to dissemination plans, this research informs future work that may involve other intervention types seeking to make substantial public health impacts.

References:

Cassar S, Salmon J, Timperio A, Powell BJ, Della Gatta J, Ma J, Koorts H. Optimizing intervention dissemination at scale: A qualitative study of multi-sector partner organization experiences. Transl Behav Med. 2024 Oct 6;14(10):621-633. doi: 10.1093/tbm/ibae042.

Authorship:

Lindsay Ballengee, PT, DPT, PhD, Research Fellow, Duke Clinical Research Institute

with contributions from the INTERACT team:

• Leah Zullig, PhD – Professor, Duke Department of Population Health Sciences; Director, INTERACT
• Heather King, PhD, Assistant Professor, Duke Department of Population Health Sciences; Director, INTERACT
• Carolina Mejia, PhD – IS Technical Advisor, Duke Department of Population Health Sciences, INTERACT
• Megan Oakes, MS – Senior Research Program Leader, Duke Department of Population Health Sciences, INTERACT