Use of a knowledge exchange event strategy to identify key priorities for implementing deprescribing in primary healthcare in Nova Scotia, Canada

Background: Deprescribing, the process of dose reduction or stopping of medication(s) that may no longer be required, may improve medication use and patient outcomes. A collaborative interprofessional deprescribing research team was formed in 2017 in Nova Scotia (NS), Canada with the goal of investigating potential deprescribing initiatives which could be translated to primary healthcare in NS. The knowledge-to-action framework, which includes knowledge exchange, was used to guide the work of this team. Preliminary work involved knowledge inquiry and synthesis through a scoping review of deprescribing strategies in primary healthcare, a qualitative study to understand influences on deprescribing by local practitioners, and an analysis that combined the two.Aims and objectives: To describe and reflect on how an interactive knowledge exchange event strategy was used to (1) share the results, including knowledge tools, of previously conducted deprescribing research with stakeholders; (2) identify priorities for the development and implementation of collaborative deprescribing strategies in primary healthcare in NS.Key conclusions: The knowledge exchange event strategy utilised in this project achieved the planned objectives of sharing research results, raising awareness about deprescribing, and providing direction for future initiatives. The successful implementation of the knowledge exchange event hinged on many factors such as hiring a research coordinator; limiting the in-person event to one half-day; and using a variety of strategies for participant engagement both before and after the event. Other research teams could adopt a similar knowledge exchange event process as an approach for sharing research results and identifying future research and translation priorities.Key messagesThe knowledge exchange event provides an example of multiple methods of stakeholder engagement.A World Café approach provided an opportunity for diverse stakeholder input.Provision of knowledge tools in advance decreased event time which may have improved attendance.Key priorities for future deprescribing initiatives were developed through stakeholder engagement.