In the present article, we highlight three new directions for scholars interested in diffusion research. While other scholars are actively pursuing diffusion research with different emphases including large‐scale randomized trials in international development, policy diffusion, and the diffusion of beliefs through social media, here we focus on dissemination science, implementation science, and positive deviance research. Each of these new directions fills a void in the traditional diffusion of innovation research and practice paradigm, while sharing a focus on improving public health and healthcare. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]