Integrated knowledge translation to advance noncommunicable disease policy and practice in South Africa: Application of the exploration, preparation, implementation, and sustainment (epis) framework

Abstract

In response to the “know–do” gap, several initiatives have been implemented to enhance evidenceinformed decision-making (EIDM). These include individual training, organizational culture change management, and legislative changes. The importance of relationships and stakeholder engagement in EIDM has led to an evolution of models and approaches including integrated knowledge translation (IKT). IKT has emerged as a key strategy for ensuring that engagement is equitable, demand-driven, and responsive. As a result, the African-German Collaboration for Evidence-Based Healthcare and Public Health in Africa (CEBHA+) incorporated an IKT approach to infuence non‑ communicable diseases (NCD) policy and practice. We documented the phased process of developing, implement‑ ing, and monitoring the IKT approach in South Africa; and explored the appropriateness of using the exploration, preparation, implementation, and sustainment (EPIS) framework for this purpose.