Implementing an evidence-based program that can lead to a healthier community: From theory to practice

This session will provide an overview of the process to implement and expand an evidence-based program. An agency in San Diego evaluated the feasibility of expanding the Nurse-Family Partnership (NFP) program in two County regions and implementing NFP in the remaining four regions. Concerns arose about securing approval from agency leaders, adequate referral numbers, and ability to maintain model fidelity. NFP is an evidence-based program that provides home visits to first-time pregnant, low-income women. With agency expansion, the NFP workforce would increase from 11 PHNs to 53 PHNs allowing the agency to serve 1,325 families, which is 23% of the target population. Strategies implemented during the planning phase included conducting a feasibility study to determine if expansion was possible; assessing how to maximize the positive impact on the health and well being of non-NFP clients in remaining PHN programs; developing a business case document to secure approval from agency leadership; and working with the NFP National Service Office to ensure the implementation and expansion can lead to replication of NFP program outcomes. Lessons learned include the need for support and guidance from the NFP National Service Office to assist in maintaining fidelity, agency commitment to maintain data integrity, agency commitment to an implementation plan, and the need to choose funding sources wisely. Recommendations include working with community agencies to establish strong partnerships and support, working with a third party to ensure model fidelity is maintained, and working with internal leadership to ensure program aligns with strategic plan of agency.