Translational research can often be divided into Step 1 and Step 2 research. The first Step research studies the efficacy of an intervention in a highly controlled setting, for example a double blind trial of a new medication. The second Step looks at effectiveness in a more ‘real world’ environment where implementation and other challenges must be addressed to guide broader applicability of an intervention. Typical challenges in these effectiveness studies are adopting protocols and interventions for the real world circumstances (e.g. scale, cultural competency, and buy-in), recruitment of representative practices, capturing site-specific information about what works and what doesn’t.

The RE-AIM framework is valuable method to guide effectiveness study evaluations. The RE-AIM dimensions of Reach, Efficacy, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance identify key domains that must be considered for an intervention to have wider applicability, sustainability and spread.

The most impactful clinical research in a practice setting considers the various aspects of the RE-AIM framework in the design and evaluation.

What kinds of studies or interventions do you consider best suited for clinical diabetes practices?

Information about the discussion leader

The discussion will be moderated by Dr Robert A. Gabbay (Associate Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, and Chief Medical Officer and Senior Vice President, Joslin Diabetes Center, Boston MA).

References

1. Gaglio B, Shoup JA, Glasgow RE. The RE-AIM Framework: A Systematic Review of Use Over Time. American Journal of Public Health. 2013 Jun;103(6):e38–46.

Recommended websites

• IDF BRIDGES This website gives an overview of the translational research projects in primary and secondary prevention of diabetes funded by BRIDGES (Bringing Research in Diabetes to Global Environments and Systems), an International Diabetes Federation programme supported by an educational grant from Lilly Diabetes.
• Reach Effectiveness Adoption Implementation Maintenance (RE-AIM) This site provides an explanation of the RE-AIM framework and resources for those wanting to apply it.