Strengthening systems' research use capacity for improving health outcomes

To strengthen health systems, which are key determinant of health, several suggest building bridges between research and action. Developing individual and organizational capacity to use research is key in bridging the research-to-practice gap. In 2006, research and policy institutions in Mexico led by the National Institute of Public Health joined forces to establish the Health Systems Research for State Sector Development (INDESES) consortium to strengthen research use capacity of health system decision-makers. Research use assessment and intervention methods developed by the Canadian Health Services Research Foundation (CHSRF) were adapted to Mexico.  A research use self –assessment tool was applied to 103 management teams. Literature synthesis methods were developed to address the problems of key vulnerable groups. A training module on introduction to research use concepts was used to train over 120 junior and middle-level managers. Interventions to institutionalize health research use at state level were also developed. Through analysis of the self-assessment tool, a gradient in research use capacity was observed across states. Knowledge acquisition is inversely proportional to the states’ Human Development Index (HDI). States with lower HDI had more fundamental strengthening needs. The chief strengthening need detected was in knowledge acquisition. The chief perceived priority was to increment personnel’s qualifications in health research. In conclusion, strategies to strengthen capacity should vary according to HDI. In lower HDI regions, it is proposed to increase decision maker sensitivity to research.

INDESES is now proposing for funding a two-year, research use capacity building project that will adapt project activities to the specific needs of highly varying states in Mexico.