2013-05-31-世界卫生组织-EVIPNet_references_in_the_scientific_literature_54页_553kb

EVIPNet Summary

Core Content

EVIPNet, or the Evidence-Informed Policy Network, is a WHO initiative aimed at promoting the systematic use of research evidence in policy-making, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. It functions as a collaborative network that brings together policy-makers, researchers, and civil society to enhance the translation of research into policy and practice. EVIPNet is structured around regional networks in Africa, Asia, and the Americas, and has been operational since 2005, initially launched in Asia.

Main Views and Key Information

1. Purpose and Function

• EVIPNet aims to improve public health and reduce inequities by ensuring evidence-based decision-making.
• It focuses on systematic use of health research to support policy development and implementation.
• EVIPNet encourages collaboration between policy-makers, researchers, and civil society.
• The initiative uses systematic reviews and the GRADE approach to ensure the quality and applicability of evidence.

2. Structure and Operations

• EVIPNet comprises regional networks (Africa, Asia, Americas) and a global steering group.
• Country teams are led by senior health officials in partnership with research institutions and civil society.
• EVIPNet has a global website and regional portals, such as the EVIPNet Portal: Virtual Health Library and the EVIPNet International Discussion Forum: HIFA-EVIPNet-Fr.
• Knowledge translation (KT) tools are used to summarize evidence and support policy dialogues.

3. Key Activities

• Production of policy briefs based on systematic reviews.
• Establishment of priority-setting mechanisms for research.
• Organization of deliberative forums involving policymakers, researchers, and citizens.
• Investigation of clearinghouses and observatories for timely research synthesis.
• Capacity-building for policy-makers and researchers to use evidence effectively.

4. Regional Initiatives

• EVIPNet Eastern Mediterranean (EMRO) was launched in January 2009, including Bahrain, Egypt, Iran, Jordan, Libya, Lebanon, Morocco, Oman, Pakistan, Sudan, Syria, Tunisia, and Yemen.
• EVIPNet Americas was initiated by PAHO, involving Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Colombia, Mexico, Puerto Rico, and Trinidad and Tobago.
• EVIPNet Asia includes Laos, Malaysia, the Philippines, Vietnam, and China (with teams in Beijing, Shandong, and Sichuan).

5. Outcomes and Products

• EVIPNet has produced policy briefs and evidence summaries that are tailored to local contexts.
• It has contributed to improving health policies and strengthening health systems.
• Examples of applications include:
  • Vaccine and Immunization in WHO and NITAGs
  • Patient safety in WHO
  • Nutrition in WHO
  • Gender-related issues in WHO
• The EVIPNet National Policy Dialogue helps in engaging stakeholders and facilitating policy discussions.

6. Challenges and Needs

• Sustainable funding is a major challenge for EVIPNet.
• Many funding agencies do not clearly categorize evidence-informed decision-making as part of their mandate.
• Knowledge translation tools are essential for effective KT, but ongoing support is needed.
• Collaboration between wealthier and resource-limited countries is crucial for systemic change.

7. Lessons Learned

• EVIPNet Zambia (ZAMFOHR) is an example of a successful local KT platform.
• Local commitment and support from health authorities are vital for planning and development.
• Sharing experiences and building capacity among EVIPNet teams is necessary for scaling up impact.
• Policy briefs and evidence summaries are key outputs that help inform and guide decision-making.

8. Support and Partnerships

• EVIPNet is linked to the SURE project (Supporting the Use of Research Evidence), which supports research in Africa and knowledge transfer.
• It collaborates with the Regional East African Community Health Policy Initiative (REACH).
• The EVIPNet framework is based on best practices for knowledge dissemination and local implementation.

Conclusion

EVIPNet represents a key effort by WHO to bridge the gap between research and policy in low- and middle-income countries. It promotes systematic use of evidence, capacity-building, and collaboration among various stakeholders. Despite successes, funding, sustainability, and integration of evidence into policy remain key challenges that need to be addressed for long-term impact.