Implementation

SIGN is increasingly supporting implementation

For over 15 years we have been developing leading evidence based clinical guidelines. We are now shifting more of our emphasis to supporting implementation of existing guidelines and to put them into practice. Our vision is to become a World leader in guideline implementation support, in line with the wider NHS QIS vision of better supporting implementation.

SIGN implementation support

SIGN is now taking a proactive role in supporting the implementation of its guidelines and in improving the implementability of its recommendations. Our vision is to become a World leader in guideline implementation support, in line with the wider Healthcare Improvement Scotland vision of better support for implementation.

A regular update on new implementation activities is available

Main SIGN implementation support activities:

Improved processes:

Robust dissemination process
More interactive website

Awareness raising and Education:

Networking:

Linking with existing networks and projects (e.g. MCNs, collaboratives and the Scottish Patient Safety Programme)
Implementation events and meetings with NHS Boards

Implementation support resources:

Generic implementation resources
Guideline specific implementation resources
Algorithms and Care Pathways
Resource implications calculator
Audit tools
Electronic decision support tools
Slide sets

Evaluation

We intend to evaluate the various implementation strategies we use using a range of methods:

Research based evaluation
Logic modelling
Audit
Regular review

More information

More specific information is available on individual guideline pages. More implementation support resources will be available in the future. In the meanwhile, if you would like to take part in supporting the implementation of SIGN guidelines or if you would like more information, please contact:

Ali El-Ghorr
Implementation Adviser
Tel: 0131 623 4607
Email: ali.elghorr@nhs.net

Publications:

El-Ghorr A, James R and Twaddle S.
SIGN is customising implementation support to every guideline.
Guidelines in Practice; 2011: Vol 14 (issue 5), pp 40-46.