Strategies for implementing research in practice and policy in CKD: a workshop report

Background – Routine implementation of chronic kidney disease research into practice and policy is delayed, fragmented and inconsistent. This workshop aimed to identify strategies to strengthen the implementation of research findings into practice and policy from the perspectives of patients, their caregivers and health professionals. Methods – A workshop was conducted with patients (n=18), caregivers (n=9) and health professionals (n=102) from Australia and New Zealand. Thirteen simultaneous breakout groups of 6–10 participants were held online and in-person to discuss strategies for implementing research findings into practice and policy in chronic kidney disease. Transcripts were thematically analyzed. Results – Three interrelated strategies were identified. Co-production for credibility emphasizes genuine involvement of patients and caregivers in governance and priority-setting to enhance the legitimacy of research, foster trust and build lasting partnerships to extend beyond a single project. Diversity and equity for broader transferability encompasses culturally tailored, community-grounded involvement with underrepresented groups, resourced with dedicated time and funds for outreach and translation to ensure cultural relevance and generalizability. Accessible and actionable integration of evidence focuses on clearly articulating research outputs into clinical and policy implications by packaging findings in practical and accessible formats (e.g., plain-language summaries and visual materials), to translate evidence into action. Conclusions – Embedding these strategies may strengthen the routine translation of research evidence into practice and policy, ultimately improving care and outcomes for individuals with kidney disease.