The Role of Action Research in the Investigation and Diffusion of Innovations in Health Care: The PRIDE Project

Abstract

In this article, the authors discuss the role of action research in relation to the investigation and practical implementation of innovations in health care. The diffusion of innovations is an essential component of the modernization of health services worldwide. However, the literature shows that it is not an easy process to research. A paradox is noted that although action research has much to offer, it has had only a limited impact in the innovation field. Drawing on an example of a project in the United Kingdom, the authors discuss whether action research is a valuable method in the study of the diffusion of innovations. They analyze its strengths and limitations as a "whole systems approach" that combines researching with developing and diffusing innovations. They argue that it is best suited to the study of innovation diffusion where there is a need for high level of adaptation in each new setting.

Action Research as an Tool for Transformation of the Pharmacist’s Praxis in Primary Care

“…Another important component of action research is the critical reflection, capable of initiating changes in behaviours, skills, services and ways of thinking. In the changing scenario of praxis, the main objective is to analyze whether the new practice reflects the important values of professionals or whether the new technology helps them to achieve their goals according to their beliefs [16].…”

Increasing the impact of health services research on service improvement: the researcher-in-residence model

“…There are, however, few examples of its use in health systems and even fewer in the mainstream HSR journals. 9 The researcher-in-residence model attempts to address this deficit.…”

L’innovation impossible comme objet sociologique. Le cas de l’implantation d’un dispositif intégrateur des services aux personnes âgées en perte d’autonomie

“…Cette intentionnalité forte distingue l'innovation du changement, qui se définit comme une observation empirique de différences dans le temps dans une dimension particulière d'une entité 1 . Le concept d'innovation renvoie donc à l'idée de changement, mais tous les changements ne représentent pas une innovation de fait 2 . Plus particuliè-rement, une innovation est une invention (la bonne idée) insérée dans un  dispositif d'accompagnement favorisant sa diffusion puis son implantation effective et efficiente 3 .…”