The field of implementation science is focused on generating knowledge that helps translate evidence about “what works” to improve population health and eliminate health inequities into practice. However, the field has largely focused on work at clinical and organizational levels and there is limited guidance about how to conceptualize and conduct policy-focused implementation science.
There are two areas under the umbrella of policy-focused implementation science: (1) policy dissemination research, which seeks to understand how research evidence can be most effectively communicated to policymakers and integrated into policymaking processes; and (2) policy implementation research, which seeks to understand how the rollout of policies can be optimized to maximize health benefits.
We offer two options for those interested in policy implementation: