Implementation Strategies: Recommendations for Specifying and Reporting

Background: Implementation strategies are crucial in implementation science for changing healthcare practices. However, their utility is limited due to inconsistent labeling, poor descriptions, lack of theoretical justification, and unclear operational definitions.

Methods: The authors propose guidelines for specifying and reporting implementation strategies using seven dimensions: actor, action, action targets, temporality, dose, implementation outcomes addressed, and theoretical justification.

Conclusion: The proposed recommendations aim to improve the reporting of implementation strategies in research studies, enhance reproducibility, and facilitate their practical application. The authors suggest that these guidelines will stimulate further identification of essential elements for reporting implementation strategies.