Influence of General Practice Research on National Policy
Author Information
Author(s): JE Pirkis, GA Blashki, AW Murphy, IB Hickie, L Ciechomski
Primary Institution: The University of Melbourne
Hypothesis
To what extent did relevant general practice based research shape the given initiative, and what other competing influences on policy were present?
Conclusion
General practice based research can influence policy-making and planning processes by strengthening the foundation of evidence upon which they draw.
Supporting Evidence
- General practice based research played an important role in shaping health policy initiatives.
- Both case studies showed that research was not merely used symbolically but had instrumental use in policy development.
- Political will and stakeholder involvement were significant factors in the policy-making process.
Takeaway
This study shows that research from general practice can help shape health policies, but it needs to be used alongside other factors like politics and stakeholder involvement.
Methodology
A two-case exploratory case study approach was used, examining the influence of general practice based research on two health policy initiatives.
Potential Biases
Potential observer bias and subjectivity in interpreting the influence of research on policy.
Limitations
The case study approach limits generalizability and may introduce observer bias.
Participant Demographics
Patients with established heart disease from a random sample of 35 general practices in Ireland.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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