Encouraging the use of scientific evidence in decision making

A major challenge for health systems is to promote the use of scientific evidence supporting public policies that seek to improve efficiency and the health of the population. The objective of this study was to identify and discuss strategies to encourage the use of scientific evidence in the process of health decision making. The search was performed in the repositories of the Virtual Health Library, Health Systems Evidence and PubMed. SUPPORT (Supporting Policy Relevant Reviews and Trials) Tools were used for the preparation of this overview. Seven systematic reviews were used to identify options to stimulate the use of evidence for decision making: 1) Produce policy briefings with adapted language for different audiences; 2) Stimulate the use of journalism and other forms of mass communication for dissemination of scientific knowledge; 3) Implement online platforms for dissemination of scientific knowledge, and; 4) Promote the dialogue between researchers and policy makers. Strategies to encourage the use of scientific evidence in health decision making can be implemented in a synergistic way; however, it is important to assess the local context and the implications of each strategy for the health system as a whole.

卫生系统面临的一项核心挑战，在于推动科学证据的应用，以支撑旨在提升系统运行效率与国民健康水平的公共政策制定。本研究旨在识别并探讨可推动卫生决策过程中科学证据应用的相关策略。文献检索工作依托虚拟卫生图书馆（Virtual Health Library）、卫生系统证据库（Health Systems Evidence）及PubMed开展。本次综述的编制采用了SUPPORT（Supporting Policy Relevant Reviews and Trials）工具。本研究依托7项系统综述，识别出四类可促进决策过程中证据应用的策略：1）针对不同受众使用适配性语言撰写政策简报；2）借助新闻媒体及其他大众传播形式推广科学知识；3）搭建在线平台以传播科学知识；4）推动研究人员与政策制定者之间的对话交流。可通过协同联动的方式实施推动卫生决策中科学证据应用的相关策略，但需重点评估当地实际情境，以及各项策略对整体卫生系统的潜在影响。