Abstracts

Rationale: Translating evidence-based research into practice presents challenges in public health. Rogers’ (2003) diffusion of innovations approach influences dissemination processes, but an implementation and knowledge utilization framework provides needed structure to evaluate translation efforts. EF and the MEWN collaborated to use Graham and Logan’s (2004) Ottawa Model of Research Use (OMRU) framework to pilot and replicate among its local offices 3 evidence-based MEWN programs. Methods: Since 2013, EF has funded 13 local EF offices to implement 3 self-management (SM) programs for people with epilepsy (PWE): Project UPLIFT (9 sites), PACES in Epilepsy (1 site), and HOBSCOTCH (3 sites) (Graphic 1). Sites had at least 1 staff member trained to facilitate and delivered the program to a target number of participants, emphasizing underserved populations. Each site created a marketing and recruitment plan, assessed outcomes using validated survey instruments, and addressed program sustainability.  Implementers addressed the 3 components of OMRU to improve knowledge translation: assessing barriers and supports; monitoring interventions and degree of use; and outcomes. Results: Sites identified barriers and supports specific to their communities. Supports were local resource availability, local clinician support, promotion through existing networks, and availability of standardized materials by MEWN. Barriers were geographic limitations affecting program delivery methods. Social interaction between participants and program facilitators was both a support and a barrier – participants identified greater QoL and more optimism about the future by how deeply they engaged in the interventions, but social interaction led to discussions that detracted from achieving program objectives.Monitoring the interventions and their degree of use were grant priorities. Implementation involved monthly technical assistance support from MEWN and EF to address challenges and questions, assess program fidelity, and redirect facilitators as needed. Sites monitored how many participants were recruited, treated, and retained in the programs, submitting a report after a 6-month grant period.Since 2013, 98 PWE from 8 states have completed one of these SM programs. Outcomes included reduced depression ranging from 24 -43% across Project UPLIFT sites; improvement in problem solving and concentration among HOBSCOTCH participants; and an increase in QoL (QOLIE-31) of 50% in PACES in Epilepsy. Conclusions: A collaborative approach among researchers and public health professionals using methods of integrated knowledge translation is necessary to move from passive to active use of evidence-based programs by PWE to improve QoL. Funding: Funding is made possible through a cooperative agreement between Epilepsy Foundation and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) (1NU58DP006256-02-00). The contents are solely the responsibility of the Epilepsy Foundation and do not necessarily represent the views of the CDC.