Recruiting for Engagement in Health Policy

Background: Who participates in public and patient engagement processes, and in what capacity they participate, matters. The strategies employed to recruit participants shape the outcomes and legitimacy of engagement processes. We explore these issues through a case study of workshop recruitment. Methods: We conducted a mixed-methods study drawing on literature about existing theories of engagement, and integrated findings from the research team's own public engagement workshop in September 2022. We sought to align theoretical frameworks with practical approaches to recruiting for engagement. Results: There are inherent trade-offs in recruitment methods. While the theory of recruitment is valuable, practical implementation is complex and highly context-dependent. Engaging existing partners and fostering relationships beyond specific events is crucial. Hybrid workshops and low-barrier honoraria promote participation; however, decisions about location and time create barriers. Finally, balancing trusting relationships with critical perspectives can create tension. Discussion: Recruitment is foundational for the engagement process, and requires flexibility, responsiveness and a realistic understanding of barriers. Our study suggests that there is no universal formula for ideal participant makeup or event format. Meaningful engagement requires ongoing dialogue and constant adjustment based on practice. Policy makers can use these insights to align recruitment and engagement strategies with their goals in order to move beyond quick, technocratic fixes.