BACKGROUND:
In France, regional and national health institutions increasingly fund and promote the implementation of evidence-based programs (EBP) in public health. However, practitioners face operational challenges: scaling, context adaptation, integration into local practices, and balancing EBP with evidence-based prevention for topics or populations lacking validated programs. To address these issues, the French Society for Public Health launched a collaborative initiative in 2022, supported by the Directorate General for Health and Public Health France.

METHODS:
From March to December 2023, a mixed-methods study was conducted, including: analysis of six documented EBP capitalized reports, an online questionnaire completed by 29 stakeholders, and four focus groups involving funders, researchers, practitioners, and institutions. Data were analyzed using thematic content and structural analysis.

RESULTS:
The study identified a typology of EBP implementation approaches in France. Key findings highlighted favorable conditions and levers: clear communication and knowledge sharing to facilitate access and adoption; strengthened support for implementation (resources, continuous monitoring); a supportive environment (regional acceptability, program relevance); mutual learning through experience sharing across regions; and the importance of transferability and adaptation studies to maintain effectiveness while addressing local specificities.

CONCLUSIONS:
Widespread EBP implementation requires addressing scaling, context adaptation, and stakeholder support. The collaborative assessment revealed both levers and barriers. Involvement in EBP fosters an evidence-based mindset among practitioners. Next steps include developing deployment tools and structuring an advocacy strategy to mobilize stakeholders. Supporting and evaluating complex, locally-built interventions could enhance their transferability and scalability, despite budgetary constraints.