Understanding the implementation of complex interventions in health care: the normalization process model.
BACKGROUND
The Normalization Process Model is a theoretical model that assists in explaining the processes by which complex interventions become routinely embedded in health care practice. It offers a framework for process evaluation and also for comparative studies of complex interventions. It focuses on the factors that promote or inhibit the routine embedding of complex interventions in health care practice.


METHODS
A formal theory structure is used to define the model, and its internal causal relations and mechanisms. The model is broken down to show that it is consistent and adequate in generating accurate description, systematic explanation, and the production of rational knowledge claims about the workability and integration of complex interventions.


RESULTS
The model explains the normalization of complex interventions by reference to four factors demonstrated to promote or inhibit the operationalization and embedding of complex interventions (interactional workability, relational integration, skill-set workability, and contextual integration).


CONCLUSIONS
The model is consistent and adequate. Repeated calls for theoretically sound process evaluations in randomized controlled trials of complex interventions, and policy-makers who call for a proper understanding of implementation processes, emphasize the value of conceptual tools like the Normalization Process Model.
May
Carl
C
Institute of Health and Society, Newcastle University, 21 Claremont Place, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4AA, UK. c.r.may@ncl.ac.uk
Finch
Tracy
T
Mair
Frances
F
Ballini
Luciana
L
Dowrick
Christopher
C
Eccles
Martin
M
Gask
Linda
L
MacFarlane
Anne
A
Murray
Elizabeth
E
Rapley
Tim
T
Rogers
Anne
A
Treweek
Shaun
S
Wallace
Paul
P
Anderson
George
G
Burns
Jo
J
Heaven
Ben
B
D019317:Evidence-Based Medicine; D019983:Guideline Adherence; D006801:Humans; D008962:Models, Theoretical; D010818:Practice Patterns, Physicians'; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic