A systematic review of adaptations of evidence-based public health interventions globally

Adaptationsof evidence-based interventions (EBIs) often occur. However, little is known about the reasons for adaptation, the adaptation process, and outcomes of adaptedEBIs. To address this gap, we conducted a systematic review to answer the following questions: (1) What are the reasons for and common types of adaptationsbeing made to EBIs in community settings as reported in the published literature? (2) What steps are described in making adaptationsto EBIs? and (3) What outcomes are assessed in evaluations of adaptedEBIs? We conducted a systematic review of English language publications that described adaptationsof public health EBIs. We searched Ovid PubMed, PsycINFO, PsycNET, and CINAHL and citations of included studies for adaptedpublic health EBIs. We abstracted characteristics of the original and adaptedpopulations and settings, reasons for adaptation, types of modifications, use of an adaptationframework, adaptationsteps, and evaluation outcomes. Forty-two distinct EBIs were found focusing on HIV/AIDS, mental health, substance abuse, and chronic illnesses. More than half (62%) reported on adaptationsin the USA. Frequent reasons for adaptationincluded the need for cultural appropriateness(64.3%), focusing on a new target population (59.5%), and implementing in a new setting (57.1%). Common adaptationswere content (100%), context (95.2%), cultural modifications (73.8%), and delivery (61.9%). Most study authors conducted a community assessment, prepared new materials, implemented the adaptedintervention, evaluated or planned to evaluate the intervention, determined needed changes, trained staff members, and consulted experts/stakeholders. Most studies that reported an evaluation (k = 36) included behavioral outcomes (71.4%), acceptability (66.7%), fidelity (52.4%), and feasibility (52.4%). Fewer measured adoption (47.6%) and changes in practice (21.4%). These findings advance our understanding of the patterns and effects of modifications of EBIs that are reported in published studies and suggest areas of further research to understand and guide the adaptation process. Furthermore, findings can inform better reporting of adaptedEBIs and inform capacity building efforts to assist health professionals in adaptingEBIs.