Talk to the Veterans Crisis Line now
U.S. flag
An official website of the United States government

VA Health Systems Research

Go to the VA ORD website
Go to the QUERI website

QUERI Implementation Research Group

Selecting and Applying Theories, Models and Frameworks for Implementation Science


by Sarah Birken, PhD
Seminar date: 1/7/2021

Description: Theories, models, and frameworks (TMFs) are intended to accomplish several goals in implementation science such as generalizing implementation efforts and research findings across settings, clinical conditions, and groups and contributing to a cumulative evidence base. Despite their potential benefits, evidence suggests that TMFs are seldom used in implementation science and, when they are used, they are often used suboptimally, limiting their potential benefits. Resources are increasingly available for TMF selection; however, the challenges of appropriate TMF use remain evident. In this talk, I will offer implementation scientists guidance for when and for what purpose TMFs may be most useful with the goal of promoting appropriate TMF selection and application. I will do so by reviewing TMF types, characteristics, and purpose. I will then map TMFs onto the phases of implementation research and practice.

View archived session video:



DOWNLOAD: PDF handout | Audio only (mp3) | transcript not yet available


Questions about the HSR website? Email the Web Team

Any health information on this website is strictly for informational purposes and is not intended as medical advice. It should not be used to diagnose or treat any condition.