The role of Communities of Practice in developing research capacity and capability in adolescent and young adult healthcare: an integrative review

Abstract Background Evidence to support adolescent and young adult health services innovations is notably lacking compared to that available for children and adults. Communities of Practice (CoPs) offer a promising avenue to support clinicians and researchers to build research capability, collaborate and exchange knowledge and resources. However, few are dedicated to adolescent healthcare. The aim of this research was to determine how to develop, support, harness and demonstrate the benefits offered by CoPs with the broader goal of supporting development of adolescent-specific research capacity and capability. Methods An inclusive search strategy was employed to capture manuscripts describing the creation, workings and sustainability of groups sharing the core features of CoPs. Screening and review of studies was conducted using Covidence systematic review software. Core data were extracted and analysed using content analysis principles. Relevant data were identified and coded for each research question. Codes were then reviewed and amalgamated into themes. Results Combined searches produced 4,436 records. Title and abstract screening identified 69 potentially eligible manuscripts of which 15 were deemed eligible for inclusion. Included papers were predominantly descriptive in nature with most focussing on the early stages of CoP planning and implementation. A wide variety of CoP functions were identified alongside barriers and facilitators. Translation of CoP research into policy and practice remained largely unreported or was aspirational. Conclusions This review provides insights on the evidence-based structures and processes required to support collaboration, prevent duplication, and amplify skills and knowledge within research-focussed CoPs, particularly in resource-constrained settings like adolescent healthcare.