Evidence-informed health policy 4 – Case descriptions of organizations that support the use of research evidence
2008

Case Descriptions of Organizations Supporting Research Evidence Use

Sample size: 51 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Lavis John N, Moynihan Ray, Oxman Andrew D, Paulsen Elizabeth J

Primary Institution: McMaster University

Hypothesis

How can organizations effectively support the use of research evidence in health policy?

Conclusion

The study highlights the importance of strong relationships between researchers and policymakers while also addressing the challenges of resource limitations and conflicts of interest.

Supporting Evidence

  • Strong relationships between researchers and policymakers can enhance the use of research in health policy.
  • An evidence-based approach is time-consuming but necessary for effective health policy development.
  • Conflicts of interest are a significant challenge in maintaining the integrity of research use in policymaking.

Takeaway

This study looked at different organizations that help use research to make health decisions, showing that good teamwork between researchers and policymakers is really important.

Methodology

The study involved purposive sampling of organizations, site visits, interviews, and documentary analyses to gather case descriptions.

Potential Biases

There is a potential for bias due to the close relationships between researchers and policymakers, which can lead to conflicts of interest.

Limitations

The study may have social desirability bias, as organizations might have tailored their responses to what they thought the researchers wanted to hear.

Participant Demographics

Participants included directors, staff members, advocates, and critics from various organizations, primarily from low- and middle-income countries.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1748-5908-3-56

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