How knowledge translation interventions involving health policymakers are evaluated: a scoping review protocol.

Background Knowledge translation (KT) interventions are widely used to support the use of research evidence in health policymaking. These interventions vary in form, scope, and complexity, and are evaluated using a broad range of methodological approaches. Despite sustained attention to evidence-informed policymaking, there has been no comprehensive synthesis describing how KT interventions involving policymakers are evaluated, or how evaluation approaches are applied across different intervention types and policy contexts. Objectives This scoping review aims to map and describe the evaluation methods used to evaluate KT interventions involving health policymakers. Specifically, the review seeks to (1) identify and categorise evaluation designs and methods used across KT intervention types; (2) describe the frameworks, concepts, and rationales reported to inform evaluation design choices; (3) examine how evaluation approaches are applied in relation to key intervention characteristics, including intervention type and complexity; and (4) summarise methodological characteristics and gaps in the existing evidence base. Methods The review is conducted following established scoping review methodology and is reported in accordance with PRISMA-ScR guidance. Searches were conducted in major bibliographic databases and relevant grey literature sources. Eligible studies published in English from 2000 onwards evaluated a KT intervention involving health policymakers in health or public health contexts. Two reviewers independently screened records and extracted data using a piloted charting form. Evaluation approaches are being mapped descriptively across KT intervention types, with narrative synthesis used to identify recurring methodological patterns and gaps. Methodological characteristics are being examined descriptively using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. Dissemination Findings will be published in an open-access peer-reviewed journal and disseminated through conference presentations and plain-language summaries to support learning and transparency in the evaluation of KT interventions for policymaking.