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American Public Health Association
133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition
December 10-14, 2005
Philadelphia, PA
APHA 2005
 
4326.0: Tuesday, December 13, 2005 - Table 2

Abstract #104119

Developing Frameworks for the Implementation of Human Services

Dean L. Fixsen, PhD, Karen A. Blase, PhD, and Sandra F. Naoom, MSPH. Child and Family Studies, Louis de la Parte Florida Mental Health Institute, University of South Florida, 13301 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., MHC 2312, Tampa, FL 33612, 813-974-4446, dfixsen@fmhi.usf.edu

The purpose of this presentation is to describe the results of a far-reaching review of the implementation literature. There is broad agreement that implementation is a decidedly complex endeavor, more complex than the policies, programs, procedures, techniques, or technologies that are the subject of the implementation efforts. In the course of the review of the literature, conceptual frameworks were developed to help summarize the information, create understanding, and evolve testable hypotheses. Implementation is synonymous with coordinated change at system, organization, program, and practice levels. In a fundamental sense implementation is most successful when carefully selected practitioners receive coordinated training, coaching, and frequent performance assessments; when organizations provide the infrastructure necessary for timely training, skillful supervision and coaching, and regular process and outcome evaluations; when communities and consumers are fully involved in the selection and evaluation of programs and practices; and when state and federal funding avenues, policies, and regulations create a hospitable environment for implementation and program operations. Based on the findings from this review of the literature it is concluded that thoughtful and effective implementation strategies at multiple levels are essential to any systematic attempt to use the products of science to improve the lives of children, families, and adults.

Learning Objectives:

  • At the conclusion of the session, the participant in the session will be able to

    Presenting author's disclosure statement:

    I wish to disclose that I have NO financial interests or other relationship with the manufactures of commercial products, suppliers of commercial services or commercial supporters.

    Mental Health Roundtable Session

    The 133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition (December 10-14, 2005) of APHA