Tailoring Evidence-Based Interventions for New Populations

Abstract

Evidence-based interventions (EBIs) are an important tool for community health practitioners, but there is often a mismatch between the population in which the EBI was validated and the target population in which it will be used. Methods of planned adaptation identify differences in the new target population and attempt to make changes to the EBI that accommodate these differences without diluting the program’s effectiveness. This article outlines an innovative method for eliciting ideas for program modifications and deciding on program changes. The Method for Program Adaptation through Community Engagement (M-PACE) uses systematic and detailed feedback from program participants to guide adaptation. The authors describe procedures for obtaining high-quality participant feedback and adjudicating recommendations to decide on program changes. M-PACE was developed as part of the adaptation of an evidence-based, arthritis self-management program for older adults. The application and results of the M-PACE method are presented using this case as an example.

Investigating Gender Differences in Physical Activity Behavior and Social Cognitions among First-Year Medical Students

“…Thus, the promotion of PA habits among physicians may be an important step in improving both physicians' personal health and, by extension, the quality of care they provide. The undergraduate medical school curriculum represents an important opportunity to develop evidence-based health promotion interventions that encourage future physicians to adopt and promote active lifestyles (Chen et al, 2013). Indeed, recent reports indicate that in the 2016 -2017 academic term, 11 698 (Enrollment in Canadian Faculties of Medicine, 2017) and 88 222 (Association of American Medical Colleges, 2018) medical students were enrolled in Canadian and American faculties of medicine, respectively; thus, highlighting the potential student health impact of evidence-based PA promotion interventions within the medical school curriculum.…”

Universal Prevention Exposure as a Moderator of the Community Context: Findings from the PROSPER Project

“…The “first generation” of research on EBP effectiveness in community settings highlighted the importance of program adherence and implementation quality in determining the success of EBPs at achieving desired outcomes (Domitrovich & Greenberg, 2000). This work has been followed by studies indicating that careful EPB adaptation in response to local circumstances might facilitate program uptake and sustainability (Castro, Barrera, & Martinez, 2004; Chen, Reid, Parker, & Pillemer, 2013; Kumpfer, Pinyuchon, de Melo, & Whiteside, 2008). Recent research suggests that RPFs may have different implications for youth development in different communities (Feinberg et al, 2012), but it is unclear how community stakeholders should use this information to make decisions regarding EBP adoption and adaptation.…”

Adaptation of a Cervical Cancer Education Program for African Americans in the Faith-Based Community, Atlanta, Georgia, 2012

“…This strategy has been suggested as a way to ensure that the modifications are justifiable and that changes to the content, duration, or delivery style of the program will not diminish the program’s effectiveness (19,20). Linking program developers to community organizations that are adopting evidence-based programs can increase translations of EBIs in that developers can address issues related to program implementation and adaptation (21).…”