Innovation in rural, remote and island health and social care: A mapping review of research relating to Scotland and beyond

This report provides an overview of the literature on innovation in health and social care in rural, remote and island regions of Scotland and beyond, published since 2000. Major examples of research on the development and/or diffusion of innovations in RRI contexts were identified, including empirical and/or conceptual works. Of the 58 publications located, 11 related to Scotland and the remainder to over 20 countries in the rest of the world. The studies covered three domains: public health, healthcare, and social innovation in health. The research in each of these domains is summarized and examples of individual works are provided for illustration. Key points of interest from the overall literature are noted. The report concludes with eight recommendations for future research.