HAIF for Researchers
Why This Matters to You
HAIF is the first implementation framework specifically designed for integrating
acupuncture and acupressure into hospital clinical practice. It is grounded in
the EPIS model and CFIR constructs, providing a reproducible, theory-driven
methodology suitable for implementation science research.
What Researchers Need to Know
- Theoretical foundations: HAIF uses the EPIS model (Aarons, Hurlburt & Horwitz, 2011) for its four-phase structure and the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR) for within-phase constructs including organisational readiness, structural characteristics, leadership engagement, access to knowledge, and fidelity monitoring. See methodology details →
- Evidence base: The framework draws on Cochrane-level systematic reviews (Lee et al., 2015), GRADE-rated evidence summaries, and validated assessment tools (CARI, FAME criteria). All evidence is presented with effect sizes, confidence intervals, and quality ratings. See evidence summaries →
- Implementation data: The PONV acupressure case study provides real-world implementation data including staff survey results (n=165), patient preference data (n=160), organisational readiness scores, and implementation strategy effectiveness comparisons. See case study →
- Assessment instruments: Validated tools used in HAIF include the modified CARI readiness checklist (Barwick, 2011), PONV data extraction templates, staff attitude surveys, and patient preference instruments. See available instruments →
- Research gaps: The ED acupuncture example (research in progress) extends the framework to acute care settings with a registrar-led model, addressing different credentialling, workflow, and scope-of-practice questions. See upcoming research →
Start Here
Review the About page for the theoretical foundations of the framework, then read through the four framework phases to understand the full methodology. The reference list provides the complete citation set. For collaboration enquiries, please contact Dr Zhen Zheng.
Key Resources for Researchers
- Theoretical foundations (EPIS, CFIR)
- GRADE-rated evidence summaries
- Full reference list
- Assessment instruments and templates
- Implementation case study with data
- Upcoming ED acupuncture research
Key Publications
The HAIF framework and its application are documented in the following key references:
- Aarons, G. A., Hurlburt, M. & Horwitz, S. M. (2011). Advancing a conceptual model of evidence-based practice implementation in public service sectors. Administration and Policy in Mental Health, 38(1), 4-23. [EPIS model]
- Lee, A., Chan, S. K. & Fan, L. T. (2015). Stimulation of the wrist acupuncture point PC6 for preventing postoperative nausea and vomiting. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, (11), CD003281. [Primary evidence source]
- Cheong, K. B. et al. (2013). The effectiveness of acupuncture in prevention and treatment of postoperative nausea and vomiting. PLoS ONE, 8(12), e82474. [Systematic review and meta-analysis]
Last reviewed: April 2026