Translating research into health practice: a case study of integrated palliative care system in Catalonia, Spain

Abstract

Purpose – Research findings provide the professional community with knowledge that enables to better understand healthcare interventions. Many authors point out that whilst these findings are valued, the findings are not always translated into healthcare practise. The purpose of the paper is to assess the applicability of the essential elements of an integrated palliative care system (IPCS) found in research into the practise of Osona Palliative Care System (OPCS). Design/methodology/approach – The study used a qualitative methodology with a case study design. In total, 24 health professionals were interviewed in Osona for the research, and the results were analysed using deductive content analysis. Findings – The study concludes that research findings can better be translated into specific contexts by incorporating the needs and characteristics of the system. The process could be a strategy for bridging the research–practise gap. Originality/value – Combining the findings from the study and the findings found in the literature reviewed led to the creation of the IPCS-elements-blended model of research and practise. Such a kind of mixed model could be used in other studies seeking to overcome the research and practice gap.