Translating public health research: A strategy for building effective alliances with policy makers

Background: Translating public health research into information lawmakers can use to inform policy decisions is critical to improving health in the U.S. Studies indicate that personal contact between researchers and policymakers and the timely conveyance of information encourage the use of research by policymakers. Many researchers, however, lack the knowledge, experience and training needed to effectively translate research to policymakers. Methods: To meet the needs of policy makers for easily understood and relevant information, the Johns Hopkins Center for Injury Research and Policy (JH CIRP) developed “Preventing Injuries in Maryland: A Resource for State Policy Makers,” a 6”x9” spiral bound publication covering information and policy solutions to eight high-priority injury topics. JH CIRP distributed the Resource to lawmakers in the beginning of the 2010 legislative session through direct mail and email, and held a briefing before a Senate Committee. This in-person approach complimented the ongoing efforts of two JH CIRP faculty who volunteer for a state legislator. Results: We received a record number of requests for testimony on injury-related bills during the 2010 legislative session. Traffic to the Center's website also peaked in the weeks following distribution. We received several requests from other organizations looking to replicate our efforts in their own states. Conclusion: By designing the Resource for policy makers and disseminating the Resource through a combination of strategies, JH CIRP provided legislators with ready access to research to inform their policy decisions. This experience illustrates how translation is an effective strategy for building alliances with policy makers.