Embedding implementation science in the research pipeline.
Level 5 - mechanism / opinion, no new human data
Conceptual commentary and framework proposal without original empirical data
PubMed 37688798 · doi:10.1093/tbm/ibad050
What was done
This conceptual commentary proposes integrating implementation science principles throughout the entire research pipeline—from initial discovery through to adoption—rather than applying them post hoc. It outlines structural recommendations for research team composition, study design, competencies, and institutional capacity building.
What was found
The abstract reports no new empirical data or quantitative measurements. It cites historical benchmarks (approximately one in seven interventions reaching practice over an average of 17 years) to justify structural modifications in translational research workflows.
Why it matters
It provides a framework urging clinical and health services researchers to consider real-world contextual constraints early in intervention development rather than treating implementation as a separate, final step.
Limits
The paper is a conceptual proposal and opinion piece containing no new data, experimental testing, or comparative evaluation of the proposed pipeline changes.
Cited by
- supports It takes an average of 17 years for research findings to be implemented into clinical medical practice.