Using the Consolidate Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) to analyse qualitative data for “What do I think about implementing lung cancer screening? It all depends on how.” Acceptability and feasibility of lung cancer screening in Australia: The view of key stakeholders about health system factors.

Professor Nicole Rankin from the University of Melbourne presented her research on using the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) to analyze qualitative data.

1. Introduction to Implementation Science

• Aims to bridge the “know-do” gap between evidence and practice.
• Involves identifying barriers and facilitators to implementing evidence-based interventions.
• Uses theoretical frameworks to guide and evaluate implementation strategies.

2. CFIR framework

• Five domains: intervention characteristics, inner setting, outer setting, individual characteristics, and implementation process.
• Used to map qualitative data and understand contextual factors affecting implementation.

3. Lung cancer screening context

• Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death globally.
• Low-dose CT is an effective screening method.
• Australia’s national screening program launched on 1 July 2025.
• Screening targets high-risk populations (e.g., heavy smokers aged 50–70).

4. Qualitative research approach

• Focus groups with healthcare professionals and eligible participants.
• Used CFIR to guide semi-structured interviews and analyse transcripts.
• Developed a coding framework using Excel and NVivo.
• Mapped codes to CFIR constructs and identified barriers and facilitators.

5. Findings & methodological insights

• Lung cancer screening was seen as acceptable and feasible, but complex to implement.
• Key challenges included access, equity, workforce, and communication.
• Developed visual maps and tables to organise data and support manuscript writing.
• Emphasised pragmatic use of frameworks and flexibility in analysis.