This session examines how the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) was applied within a statewide communicable disease needs assessment and strategic planning process in rural Wyoming. Rural public health systems face unique challenges related to geography, workforce limitations, stigma, funding instability, confidentiality concerns, and fragmented access to care. The purpose of this project was to identify barriers and facilitators influencing communicable disease prevention, testing, treatment, and service delivery, and to develop a data-informed strategic plan responsive to local context and system capacity.
Methods included a mixed methods approach integrating epidemiological surveillance data, provider interviews, listening sessions, stakeholder engagement, surveys, and systems-level analysis. Participants included healthcare providers, public health professionals, community stakeholders, and Wyoming residents. CFIR-guided protocol development, qualitative inquiry, data organization, and interpretation of implementation barriers and facilitators in rural settings. The framework also supported accelerated analytic processes following delays caused by disruptions to government funding.
Findings demonstrated that geographic isolation, workforce shortages, stigma, inconsistent service availability, and structural barriers continue to influence communicable disease outcomes and care-seeking behaviors in rural communities. Results also highlighted the importance of community engagement, cross-sector collaboration, and localized approaches when translating surveillance data into actionable public health strategies.
Attendees will leave with practical strategies for integrating implementation science and mixed methods approaches into needs assessments, strategic planning, and public health practice. The requested 1-hour format allows additional time for discussion of real-world CFIR applications, audience engagement on implementation challenges, and collaborative dialogue on adaptable strategies for rural and resource-limited systems.
