Translating an allied health transdisciplinary assessment model into two acute stroke units and a medical ward: a mixed methods implementation study

Demand for healthcare is increasing, but workforce shortages are expected to worsen in many professions, including allied health professions. An emerging workforce strategy is transdisciplinary models, which streamline care by redesigning services around local needs. However, evidence on how to translate and implement transdisciplinary models across healthcare settings remains limited. This study aimed to evaluate use of a manual designed for the implementation process of an allied health transdisciplinary assessment model at three Australian hospitals. The multi-site implementation study used a three-phase mixed methods design. Phase 1 used an embedded study design, Phase 2 used a qualitative study design, and Phase 3 integrated the results of the first two phases. The three hospital sites used an implementation manual to design and implement a transdisciplinary assessment model fit for local purpose. Data were collected via staff surveys, minutes of working party meetings, and focus groups. Data were analysed by mapping against the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research, rating implementation using a utility rubric, and thematic analysis. Across the three hospital sites (two stroke units and one medical ward), 50 surveys were completed and 11 staff participated in online focus groups. Overall, three translation recommendations were identified: (1) prioritise innovation fidelity, (2) focus on adapting the transdisciplinary model to the inner setting, and (3) identify sources of motivation/resistance early and revisit frequently. Implementation of transdisciplinary innovations requires fidelity to core processes alongside adaptation to local context. Translation efforts should be supported by cross-disciplinary communication, alignment with local workflows, protected opportunities for team sense-making, and ongoing reflection on sources of motivation and resistance to change. ACTRN12624001036505 prospectively registered on 27/08/2024.