Scaling what works: a collaborative capacity-building program tailored to optimize resources and scale evidence-based interventions for cancer prevention and control

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the Scaling What Works (SWW) program, which was developed to support the scale-up of projects that implement evidence-based cancer prevention and control interventions (CPC EBIs) across award recipients (hereafter, “awardees”) of the National Comprehensive Cancer Control Program (NCCCP). SWW projects included (1) Project ECHO and patient navigation, (2) Addressing risk factors for adult cancers during childhood, and (3) Increasing receipt of ovarian cancer care from gynecologic oncologists. In this evaluation, we sought to understand how tailored training and technical assistance (TA) can facilitate the implementation of CPC EBIs in NCCCP settings. Methods: We used a mixed-methods approach, comprising a needs assessment with focus groups and information sessions. Subsequent training and TA included a symposium and four virtual learning collaborative sessions. The evaluation included pre- and post-surveys to assess changes in participants’ confidence and satisfaction alongside qualitative feedback to refine the program. Results: The SWW program reached 89 individuals across 40 NCCCP awardees. Participants reported significant improvements in their confidence to implement, adapt, and sustain EBIs, with increases observed in all domains assessed. Feedback from the symposium and learning collaborative sessions indicated high satisfaction and notable progress in addressing barriers related to EBI implementation. Conclusion: The SWW program effectively addressed key challenges in scaling CPC interventions by providing tailored, interactive training and TA. Further engagement and continued capacity-building support are recommended to enhance the long-term impact of SWW across the NCCCP. The findings underscore the importance of investing in tailored, large-scale capacity-building to support the scale-up of evidence-based CPC approaches.