5048.0: Wednesday, October 24, 2001 - Board 4

Abstract #27202

Building and sustaining an evidence-based decision-making culture: Can it be done?

Richard A. Yoder, PhD, MPH1, Ali Arabaji, MD, MPA1, Mai Al-Saob, MD2, and Clara Siam, MD2. (1) Abt Associates Inc, PHCI Jordan, P.O. Box 851-275, Amman 11185, Jordan, (2) Directorate of Studies and Research, Ministry of Health, Jordan, Ministry of Health, Amman, Jordan, Jordan, , yoder@phci.com.jo

Promoting the use of evidence-based decision-making is a challenge in most settings of the world – not just lower-income countries. This paper describes and analyzes the structure and processes used to institutionalize and sustain the use of applied research to inform health sector policy and program decisions in Jordan at both the national and governorate levels. It begins by presenting an integrated model that summarizes the purpose and process of research, as well as the major stakeholders involved in research. The paper then analyzes four alternative strategies for building and institutionalizing a capacity for doing research along with a method for evaluating the feasibility of each alternative. The model is then illustrated with the case of Jordan and includes an analysis of not only the technical components but also the political dimensions that are present in building, institutionalizing and sustaining an evidence-based decision-making culture. The paper concludes with a summary of some successes and challenges as well as some lessons learned.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, participants will be able to: (a) describe a model of building capacity for evidence-based decision-making, along with its strengths and limitations, (b) assess alternative strategies for institutionalizing and sustaining evidence-based decision making, and (c) analyze the technical and political dimensions of building and institutionalizing evidence-based decision-making capacity.

Keywords: Evidence Based Practice, Policy/Policy Development

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.

The 129th Annual Meeting of APHA