A Model for Evidence-Informed Decision Making in Public Health

Evidence-informed decision making involves integrating the best available research evidence into the decision-making process. Additional factors – community health issues and local context; community and political preferences and actions; and public health resources – create the environment in which that research evidence is interpreted and applied. This model for evidence-informed decision making in public health is particularly relevant at the fifth step of evidence-informed public health: Adapt the information to a local context. (see diagram on reverse) This model recognizes that important evidence can come from a variety of sources. Evidence considered in the decision-making process could include the following possible examples: Sources of Evidence Examples of Evidence for Consideration Evidence from research The most relevant, high-quality qualitative or quantitative evidence available Research findings from a variety of disciplines and sectors relevant to public health Evidence about the frequency, causes, and modifying factors of local community health issues Surveillance data and community health status reports to determine the magnitude of the health issue in the local setting Significance and importance of the issue in comparison to other com-munity health concerns Evidence from people about community and political preferences and actions Needs and interests of community members Support or opposition from the public and/or government officials Current political climate (local, regional, provincial, federal) Current organizational/corporate climate Evidence from various governments and programs about public health resources Financial resource