Abstract
Knowledge about the adoption and diffusion of innovations is briefly reviewed. A model is then proposed to explain how certain innovations, intended to address dire medical problems, might diffuse in a manner not previously reported, with extensive diffusion occurring during what would be a period of small-scale experimentation and limited adoption in the conventional innovation-diffusion environment. The model is illustrated with findings from a case study of the diffusion of drug therapies for four types of leukemia. Possible implications of "desperation-reaction" diffusion are suggested.
Full text
PDF
Selected References
These references are in PubMed. This may not be the complete list of references from this article.
- Crosby W. H. To treat or not to treat acute granulocytic leukemia. Arch Intern Med. 1968 Jul;122(1):79–80. [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- Kaluzny A. D. Innovation in health services: Theoretical framework and rewiew of research. Health Serv Res. 1974 Summer;9(2):101–120. [PMC free article] [PubMed] [Google Scholar]
- Kaluzny A. D., Veney J. E., Gentry J. T. Innovation of health services: a comparative study of hospitals and health departments. Milbank Mem Fund Q Health Soc. 1974 Winter;52(1):51–82. [PubMed] [Google Scholar]