AwE framework proposes equity-focused guidance for adapting interventions and implementation strategies

A methodology paper in Implementation Science proposes the Adaptation with Equity (AwE) framework to help researchers, implementers and organisations develop equity-focused adaptation guidance. The aim is to tailor interventions or implementation strategies to local contexts while maintaining fidelity. The authors describe its development through a project involving six organisations to create an Adaptation Guide for Walk the Talk, a toolkit supporting implementation of recovery-oriented practice guidelines.

AwE comprises eight sequential but overlapping steps. These cover partnerships with organisations serving equity-deserving groups, preparation, formation of Adaptation Teams, team workshops, analysis of proposed adaptations, and development of guidance, followed by field testing and revision. The project included Samson Community Wellness as an Indigenous organisational partner. The supplied text does not report participant numbers, quantitative implementation results or patient outcomes.

The framework offers a structured approach to involving organisations and community partners in adaptation decisions, rather than evidence that particular adaptations improve care or equity. The authors call for testing across other implementation strategies, interventions, guidelines and settings. Funding came from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada; the authors declared no competing interests.