Utah CTSI Impact Evaluation Approaches and Outputs

INTRODUCTION: Impact evaluation is a key component of Clinical and Translational Science Awards (CTSA) programs and is prioritized by the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences. This study aims to assess the research impact of the Utah Clinical and Transactional Science Institute (CTSI). 

METHODS: We applied the Translational Science Benefit Model (TSBM) to assess Utah CTSI's research impact. CTSI sub-units identified supported projects with potential societal benefits. The Continuous Quality Improvement, Tracking, and Evaluation Team (CITE) of Utah CTSI contacted lead investigators of those projects, trained the interested ones on TSBM, and guided them to develop an Impact Profile-a narrative supported by evidence that describes project benefits to society. CITE validated submitted benefits and compiled final Impact Profiles in the 2025 Utah CTSI Impact Report.

RESULTS: Thirty projects were referred. Among the lead investigators of those projects, 14 declined or did not respond, four started but did not complete, and one submitted unverifiable benefits. The investigators of remaining 11 projects reported 79 benefits, however, CITE could only validate 56 of those benefits. Overall, 11 Impact Profiles were finalized demonstrating 23 benefits in clinical, 18 benefits in community, 7 benefits in economic, and 8 benefits in policy domain. Specifically, three projects showed the Life Expectancy & Quality of life benefit and three demonstrated the Disease Prevention & Reduction benefit. 

DISCUSSION: This project assessed Utah CTSI's progress toward improving the health of U.S. population and established a framework for ongoing impact tracking. Future efforts will continue capturing and validating benefits from CTSI-supported projects to monitor societal contributions.