Effects of an evidence service on health-system policy makers' use of research evidence: A protocol for a randomised controlled trial
2011

Effects of an Evidence Service on Health-System Policy Makers' Use of Research Evidence

Sample size: 168 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Lavis John N, Wilson Michael G, Grimshaw Jeremy M, Haynes R Brian, Hanna Steven, Raina Parminder, Gruen Russell, Ouimet Mathieu

Primary Institution: McMaster University

Hypothesis

Does a 'full-serve' evidence service increase the use of synthesized research evidence by policy analysts and advisors compared to a 'self-serve' evidence service?

Conclusion

The study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a full-serve evidence service in increasing the use of research evidence among health-system policy makers.

Supporting Evidence

  • The study will be the first RCT to evaluate an evidence service for health-system policy makers.
  • Health-system policy makers need timely access to synthesized research evidence.
  • Existing evidence services do not adequately meet the needs of health-system policy makers.

Takeaway

This study is trying to find out if giving health policy makers better access to research helps them use that research more in their work.

Methodology

A two-arm randomized controlled trial with a follow-up qualitative process study.

Potential Biases

Potential for contamination of study groups due to collaborative work among policy analysts and advisors.

Limitations

The trial is conducted within one division of the MOHLTC, which may lead to contamination between groups.

Participant Demographics

Participants include policy analysts and advisors from a single division of the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.05

Confidence Interval

95%

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1748-5908-6-51

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