Identification of implementation strategies using the CFIR-ERIC matching tool to address barriers in mobility assistive technology provision in Saudi Arabian hospitals

Purpose

Mobility-assistive technology (MAT) faces significant global implementation barriers. This study applied a Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) and Expert Recommendations for Implementing Change (ERIC) matching tools to identify barriers to MAT provision in Saudi Arabia and generate evidence-based implementation strategies.

Materials and methods

We triangulated findings from two published studies: a scoping review of barriers to MAT and a mixed-methods study of Saudi Arabian hospitals, including survey data, semi-structured interviews, and policy document analysis. Barriers were identified, mapped to the CFIR constructs, and translated into strategies using the CFIR-ERIC Matching Tool.

Results

Triangulation identified 14 distinct barriers across six categories mapped to 14 CFIR constructs within five domains. The CFIR-ERIC tool generated 49 implementation strategies. Planning (n = 17, 35%) and education (n = 13, 26%) were the predominant strategies. Top-ranked strategies included “identify and prepare champions” “conduct educational meetings”, and “assess for readiness”, demonstrating applicability across multiple barriers.

Conclusion

The application of implementation science frameworks is a useful way to identify evidence-based strategies to address barriers to MAT provision. The predominance of planning and education strategies, reflecting endorsements from implementation science experts, suggests that systematic preparation and knowledge dissemination are fundamental to improving MAT accessibility. The findings provide actionable guidance for stakeholders in Saudi Arabia and similar settings. Future research should empirically evaluate strategy effectiveness.