IR frameworks for One Health

The IR framework (or logic model) is used to define the aims and parameters of an intervention. Before reading this section, researchers should review the toolkit module on how to develop a logic model.

There are numerous frameworks that can be applied to IR, but when adopting a One Health approach or when investigating a One Health project, the framework must be sufficiently broad and flexible to incorporate elements from human, animal and environmental health, as well as considering the multiple intersections between each domain.⁷

This section highlights three useful frameworks that can be used in a One Health context.

Consolidated framework for Implementation research

The Consolidated framework for implementation research (CFIR) is the framework taught in the TDR Massive Open Online Course (MOOC) on Implementation Research. Most often used in health care settings it helps guide “systematic assessment of potential barriers and facilitators” to strengthen implementation strategies and understand outcomes.²⁵

The CFIR is made up of five domains (see Figure 3) that are sufficiently comprehensive for considering the complexities of the human–animal– environmental interface as well as the multidisciplinary and multistakeholder nature of a One Health approach. These domains are as follows:

outer setting
inner setting
implementation process
the thing (innovation)
individuals

Social-ecological systems framework (SESR)

“The social-ecological systems framework (SESR), including its unique conception of resilience… is the most well-developed framework allowing transdisciplinary integration of multiple knowledge domains, including of ‘local science’ as well as ‘global science’, employing an evidence-based approach applicable to One Health”.⁸

One Health is widely described as a systems approach. Based on an ecosystem approach, SESR is a useful framework for One Health as it recognizes the dynamic relationship between social processes and natural systems, as illustrated in Figure 4.²⁷

The TDR-IDRC Africa Initiative’s report on operationalizing One Health found SESR to be more effective than previous frameworks at accommodating human health and environment linkages, particularly when considering the effects of climate change (see Box 5).¹¹

Using a One Health theory of change as an IR framework

IR questions are often centred on theories of change.¹⁹ When conducting an IR study of a One Health intervention, using a One Health theory of change can be an effective framework for investigating the interdisciplinary factors that could impact outcomes and sustainability.

Researchers could use either of the One Health theories of change published in the following reports: