Statistical analysis for objective 3

Facilitators and barriers to RMG implementation will be informed through convergent analyses of quantitative and qualitative data (including data from longitudinal and cross-sectional surveys, qualitative interviews and administrative health data). This phase of the analysis is informed by the CFIR focusing on the implementation process indicators identified in table 3. Linked administrative health data will be used to identify the numbers of recipients and prescribers of RMG. Bar graphs and maps will be used to show the uptake of RMG across time and geography. Additional descriptive analyses will look at the characteristics of the population receiving RMG prescription, including sex, drug type, age, region and neighbourhood socioeconomic composition.

Qualitative interviews with people who use drugs and service providers/health planners will be transcribed verbatim, read by two researchers and analysed using NVIVO software. The initial coding framework will be based on the CFIR domains (characteristics of participants), process of implementation, intervention characteristics, and inner and outer context), and coding will proceed iteratively with the framework being refined as new themes emerge. Findings will be triangulated with descriptive analyses of quantitative data (collected via longitudinal and cross-sectional data) to examine implementation process indicators on differential understandings of eligibility and models of delivery, barriers that relate to the intervention itself, inner context, and outer context of implementation, and service provider perceptions of readiness, ability and support (table 3). Additional analyses led by FNHA investigators and Indigenous stakeholders will focus on culturally relevant issues related to RMG implementation, as reported by Indigenous people who use substances.

As a whole, this analytical strategy will provide critical insights into implementation challenges, facilitators and recommendations for improvements. Consistent with a parallel mixed-method design, this analysis will assist with the interpretation of findings generated in objectives 1 and 2, particularly variation in patterns of outcomes across measures and key subgroups.