Title: Transferring knowledge to the providers and users of health and mental health services

Authors: Ann Dadich

Addresses: Centre for Industry and Innovation Studies (CInIS), College of Business, University of Western Sydney, Locked Bag 1797, Penrith South DC NSW 1797 Australia

Abstract: Communicating evidence-based practices to the providers and users of health services can enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of these services. However, this knowledge is not consistently conveyed to either cohort. To address this issue, this paper identifies didactic methods that facilitate knowledge transfer to providers and users of health and mental health services. A review of level-one evidence suggests that promising strategies for service providers include the use of illustrative and specific information; computer-based methods; and/or information presented in clinical clusters or heuristics. Promising strategies for service users relate to style, content, format, and presentation mode. However, robust evidence is lacking. The paper concludes with a discussion of implications for research, policy, and practice.

Keywords: knowledge transfer; translation; information dissemination; diffusion; health services; mental health; service providers; evidence-based practice; clinicians; consumers; didactic methods; patients; doctors; medical staff; illustrative information; specific information; computer-based methods; clinical clusters; heuristics; service users; presentation modes; learning; change.

DOI: 10.1504/IJLC.2010.032708

International Journal of Learning and Change, 2010 Vol.4 No.2, pp.119 - 146

Published online: 15 Apr 2010 *

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