Global implementation of advanced urological care: Policy implementation research

Introduction: In high-resource countries, modern treatments for urological diseases have led to significant reductions in mortality and morbidity; however, the benefits of modern treatment have yet to reach the majority of people worldwide. As attention is focused on improving urological care in the global community, policy and implementation research (PIR) offers a platform for effective organization and engagement. Methods: We have compiled a photo essay to illustrate the fundamental components of PIR. Results: There are four central components to the conduct of PIR. These are: 1) understanding the unique characteristics of the environment; 2) studying the implementation processes that fit within the environment; 3) testing innovative and novel ways to implement; and 4) programmatic implementation and scale-up. Conclusions: PIR is a process that will help to identify, quantify, prioritize, and implement translation of modern methods of care to meet specific global needs.