Key partners both within and external to the organization can support spread in a number of ways, including: provide additional resources and expertise, help legitimize the spread effort by sending the message that the improvements are important, and link the target population with those outside the system that are engaged in a similar effort. Examples of key partners for spreading patient safety improvements might include national safety organizations, foundations supporting projects, national and state accrediting and quality review organizations, professional societies, trade associations, public and private payer groups, and others.

Key partners that have been helpful to office practices and clinics in spreading changes to improve access as well as care for people with chronic conditions include government agencies, foundations funding projects, professional societies, national and state accrediting and quality review organizations, national trade organizations, public and private payer groups, community-based resource and support organizations, and others.