The model for dementia palliative care project: implementing knowledge transfer and exchange as a core activity

Background Dementia is a terminal illness but often isn’t recognised as such. The Model for Dementia Palliative Care Project will develop a service delivery model for dementia palliative care for use in the Irish Healthcare System. Research methods include reviewing the research evidence and conducting site evaluations of existing services in the Republic of Ireland and other countries. The project timeline is October 2017–October 2020.

Aim This project will impact people with dementia their families the public researchers and the healthcare system. A key project aim is to ensure effective dissemination to each of these audiences; to meet this aim we included knowledge transfer and exchange (KTE) as a dedicated project work package.

Methods We used the evidence-based model for the transfer and exchange of research knowledge (‘EMTReK’) to design a KTE plan. The EMTReK model was produced to support researchers developing strategic dissemination strategies in the context of palliative care.

Results and discussion The core KTE activity involves identifying key messages on an ongoing basis. De-stigmatising and raising awareness about palliative care and dementia palliative care is important. Thus public awareness is central to our KTE plan. Results are being disseminated through multiple media both traditional and non-traditional including print and broadcast media social media a purpose built website and public engagement events. KTE is a two-way process and messages received are shaping our language and research activities. By establishing KTE as a core research activity we will maximise the impact of our findings to all key audiences.