Scoping Review Maps Use of the Knowledge-to-Action Framework

The Knowledge-to-Action (KTA) Framework is used to guide the translation of evidence into practice and policy. Researchers conducted a citation analysis and scoping review, searching Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar for papers citing two core KTA references. Of 8,671 records retrieved, 4,208 underwent full-text screening. The team classified use as citation only, conceptual (informing an approach) or instrumental (guiding implementation activities); 825 papers fell into the latter two categories.

KTA citations increased from 1,787 by 2013 to 4,285 by April 2024. Healthcare was the most common discipline represented (77%). Among conceptual and instrumental applications, the most frequently used framework phase was assessing barriers and facilitators (73.6%); sustaining knowledge use was least frequently applied (41.9%). Knowledge-user engagement was reported in 44.6% of papers, and equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility considerations in 11.9%.

The authors report that newer applications increasingly combine KTA with other theories, models and frameworks, alongside some attention to engagement and equity. The review describes reported use rather than testing whether the framework improves implementation or patient outcomes. Its findings may help inform future refinement of the framework, but do not establish that any particular implementation approach is more effective.