Table 1 AACTT framework definitions and examples

Action

A discrete observable behaviour

Prescribing antihypertensives, providing a referral to a specialist, washing hands, setting a policy

Actor

The individual or group of individuals who perform (or should/could) the Action

Primary care physician, pharmacist, social worker, resident, administrator, middle manager, head of unit, policymaker

Context

The physical, emotional or social setting in which the Actor performs (or should/could) the Action

Examination room, doctor’s office, outside a patient room, in a boardroom, stressful vs. calm situation, when patients’ relatives are present or not

Target

The individual or group of individuals for/with/on behalf of whom the Actor performs the Action

Patient with diabetes and blood pressure above 140/80 mmHg, patient wanting to quit smoking

Time

The time period and duration that the Actor performs the Action in the Context with/for the Target

At annual review, next time a patient visits, every week, over the next 6 months