Practical Guide to Implementation Science for Surgical Oncologists: Case Study of Breast Cancer Short Stay Program

Background Long lags exist in adoption and uptake of evidence-based interventions into real-world clinical practice based on oncology clinical trial results. Implementation science (IS) is a distinct field of health services research that aims to understand the barriers related to adoption of evidence-based guidelines and research in clinical practice. Methods Use of IS study design, methods, and outcomes can be elusive to surgical oncologists despite the tremendous need for the application of IS to bridge the evidence-to-practice gap. This report describes key components of high-quality IS. Results Herein, we illustrate how IS can be used in surgical oncology practice. Examples from implementation of the breast cancer Short Stay Program (SSP) in Netherlands is used to illustrate IS methods. Specific funding and training opportunities in implementation science are described in detail. Conclusion Use of IS in surgical oncology can help improve the uptake of evidence based medicine.

Automated summary

The adoption and uptake of evidence-based interventions based on oncology clinical trial results often experience long lags in real-world clinical practice, with implementation science (IS) aiming to understand and address these barriers. Surgical oncologists may find IS study design, methods, and outcomes elusive, but utilizing IS in practice can help bridge the evidence-to-practice gap and improve the uptake of evidence-based medicine.