Lessons learned from implementing evidence-based health information in primary care in Austria: a process evaluation using RE-AIM QuEST

Abstract Background Patients and healthcare professionals often struggle to find and evaluate trustworthy health information. General practitioners are trusted sources but need high-quality, evidence-based materials to support consultations. The Austrian EVI initiative provides accessible, evidence-based health information in primary care, and this process evaluation aims to explore lessons learned from its implementation. Methods This retrospective process evaluation was guided by the RE-AIM QuEST framework to examine an intervention aimed at integrating evidence-based health information into primary care. Companion open-ended questions were developed for each of the RE-AIM dimensions— Reach , Effectiveness , Adoption , Implementation , and Maintenance —and used to structure the analysis. Quantitative and qualitative data sources were systematically reviewed to identify Results Reach was highest in settings that enabled direct dialogue with the target group, and successful recruitment depended on the evidence-based health information topics being relevant for them. For effectiveness and adoption , easy access to evidence-based health information raised awareness and supported use, with printed materials proving essential-despite the costs. Implementation was strengthened by sustained relationships with recruited settings and providing print and digital evidence-based health information formats. For maintenance , ongoing dissemination ensured that the initiative remained visible to primary care providers and stakeholders, creating a foundation for potential national roll-out. Conclusions Primary care proved to be a highly suitable setting for disseminating evidence-based health information. Key lessons learned include the need for materials that are useful, easy to use for health professionals, and available in multiple formats, as well as the importance of strong relationships between care settings and the project team. While flexibility in responding to feedback added complexity to evaluation, it also enhanced visibility in Austria and Germany and laid the groundwork for potential national rollout. Increasing policy discourse on EBHI and health literacy further strengthens momentum.