ABSTRACT:
This session will focus on the critical role of implementation science in global health initiatives, emphasizing its importance in ensuring that interventions are not only effective but also scalable and sustainable. Implementation science bridges the gap between research and practice, offering methodologies to apply scientific discoveries in real-world settings. Our panel of experts will include the 2026 winners of the Evidence to Impact Awards – an initiative by the Elsevier Foundation in partnership with The Lancet Group – who will share insights on applying implementation science principles to global health projects. They will discuss the key challenges and barriers in the field, as well as strategies to overcome them. The discussion will also explore how interdisciplinary collaboration can enhance the effectiveness and sustainability of health interventions. The session will highlight practical examples of successful implementation science applications, illustrating how these approaches have led to measurable improvements in health outcomes and contributed to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). We aim to foster innovation and community engagement, ultimately contributing to improved health outcomes on a global scale. This session will provide a platform for experts to share their experiences and insights, and for attendees to engage in a meaningful dialogue about the future of global health initiatives.