Engaging multisector stakeholders to identify priorities for global health innovation, change and research: an engagement methodology and application to prosthetics service delivery in Cambodia

Abstract

A novel engagement methodology is presented for working with multi-sector stakeholders. The proposed methodology can be used to determine barriers and facilitators to translational research within a country-specific context by working with stakeholders in a responsive and collaborative way. A values-based stakeholder ethos throughout a research project lifecycle. This approach ensures the suitability and sustainability of research programmes being implemented within a complex ecosystem. A theoretical basis, drawn from academic and business innovation sectors, has been consolidated and adapted for practical application to design, direct and inform research in low resource settings; a complete engagement methodology is defined. The benefit of advocating an holistic approach and embedding stakeholder engagement has been applied in the prosthetics and orthotics sector in Cambodia. Considering these issues affects the legacy of any proposed change from a research programme, supporting capacity building, sector influence and ensuring relevance to partners; promoting trust for future collaborations.