Description

Author

Sophia L. Johnson (Pharmacy Practice and Science Department, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, Baltimore, MD, USA)

Nataliya V. Ivankova (Department of Health Services Administration, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA)

Abstract

We describe mixed methods action research (MMAR) concepts and the steps involved to apply a MMAR framework to conceptualize and design a stakeholder-informed and context-specific study evaluating community-based care coordination services. Working through steps in the MMAR process, we illustrate how the MMAR framework and its tools are utilized to inform the design of a multiphase MMAR study; and present exemplars and tertiary literature supporting our study design and methods decision-making. We advance 5 practical steps and related actions for researchers to apply when conceptualizing and designing a stakeholder-informed and context-specific MMAR study in health services research. We also highlight the importance of the use of community-informed meta-inferences to use as tools in the service of adapting the study while it is underway.