Using meta-synthesis to support application of qualitative methods findings in practice: a discussion of meta-ethnography, narrative synthesis, and critical interpretive synthesis

Meta-synthesis refers to a range of approaches by which existing qualitative studies in healthcare can be reviewed and compared. There is increasing use of meta-synthesis to ensure the clinical applicability of findings from qualitative studies, in healthcare generally, and in the creative arts therapies specifically. Qualitative method research can sometimes lack immediate clinical relevance, as such studies usually focus on the experiences of a small number of participants. Additionally, the results are often presented in great detail; finely elaborated, and described conceptually. Findings reported in this way can be engaging, and even emotionally compelling, however the utility of these outcomes for clinical practice can be limited. Meta-synthesis of multiple studies aims to ensure that findings from qualitative methods studies can be more easily, and effectively, applied in health and social care programs. Three approaches to metasynthesis are briefly presented here; meta-ethnography, narrative synthesis, and critical interpretive synthesis. A procedure for presentation of meta-synthesis reviews is provided.