EPHO10: Advancing public health research to inform policy and practice
The purpose of this essential public health operation (EPHO) is to ensure that research findings are summarised in an accessible way for policy-makers and practitioners in order to improve evidence-informed policy and practice. Research is fundamental to informing policy development and service delivery, and this operation includes:
- Research to enlarge the knowledge base that supports evidence-informed policy-making at all levels;
- Development of new research methods, innovative technologies and solutions in public health; and
- Establishment of partnerships with research centres and academic institutions to conduct timely studies that support decision-making at all levels of public health.
A recent self-assessment of public health services in 41 of the 53 countries in the WHO European Region found that:
- The public health evidence base is stronger than ever before, although more research is needed on addressing the wider determinants of health, disease prevention and promotion of well-being.
- Much of the information collated cannot be directly translated into policy. Links and communication between academic public health and national policy-making are generally not well established.
As a result, a recommendation was made that further work should be undertaken to ensure future research and findings are focused on upstream prevention and health promotion. Straightforward, integrated messages should be provided for policy-makers and practitioners.
