Implementation Science in Aphasia: A Systematic Review

Abstract Background: Implementation Science is the science of planned behavior change related to adoption of evidence-based practices into routine. While implementation science is an emerging field with various resources, it is important for researchers and for clinicians to understand theoretical frameworks related to implementation science in a comprehensive manner; hence the need for this review. Aims: The aims of this review are to describe the frameworks related to implementation science and to better understand the theoretical frameworks guiding implementation science in communication sciences and disorders. Procedures: The theories and frameworks have been classified in this review into determinants- focused frameworks, process-oriented frameworks, and outcome-oriented frameworks. The use of implementation science in communication sciences have been described in the areas of neurogenic communication disorders, dysphagia, augmentative and alternative communication, pediatric population, and in culturally diverse clients. Outcomes: This review demonstrates that implementation is best understood as a dynamic, multi-level process shaped by context, infrastructure, and power relations, rather than as a discrete act of adoption. Factors affecting implementation science, challenges, and strategies to foster implementation science have been discussed. Conclusions: This review supports a reframing of implementation science as a central analytic framework for examining how knowledge moves from production to practice.