Qualitative and mixed methods in QUERI and implementation research

Zickmund SL, Bokhour B, Hamilton A. Qualitative and mixed methods in QUERI and implementation research. Presented at: VA HSR&D National Meeting; 2011 Feb 16; National Harbor, MD.

Workshop Objectives: The Veterans Health Administration (VHA) promotes implementation research as an evidence-based strategy for improving care by facilitating the adoption of evidence-based clinical practices. Implementation research, in turn, relies on the rigorous application of qualitative data collection methods, especially in the context of formative and process evaluation. The use of qualitative methods in implementation research is uniquely shaped by the exigencies inherent in this field in ways not previously described. The objective of this workshop is to present the methodological and theoretical foundations of qualitative and mixed methods implementation research. It draws upon the experiences of qualitative researchers in the context of VHA Quality Enhancement Research Initiative (QUERI) implementation projects. Activities: In this workshop, the three presenters will: (1) define qualitative and mixed methods research, (2) provide usable hands-on guidance for conducting studies with qualitative methods, (3) discuss how qualitative methods fit into the QUERI process and frameworks; and (4) provide exemplars from QUERI projects that use qualitative and mixed methods for implementation. Participants will then design a qualitative evaluation for an implementation project themselves. Workshop presenters will facilitate discussion about strengths and weaknesses of different approaches to identifying appropriate research questions and data collection methods. The workshop will conclude with recommendations for the analysis of qualitative data in the context of mixed methods implementation research. Participants will be provided with materials and bibliographies needed to begin using qualitative methods in the context of implementation research. Target Audience: Investigators and methodologists who are interested in using qualitative methods in implementation research. Assumed Audience Familiarity with Topic: Beginner.