Obstacles and opportunities to using research evidence in local public health decision-making in England

• DOI: 10.1186/s12961-019-0446-x
• Publication Date: 2019-06-27T23:05:55Z
• Authors: Dylan Kneale; Antonio Rojas-García; James Thomas
• Keywords: Health Services Research; Health administration

Local public health service delivery and policy-setting in England was overhauled 2013, with local government now responsible for the complex tasks involved protecting improving population addressing inequalities. Since funding per person has declined, adding to challenge of decision-making. In a climate austerity, research evidence could help guide more effective use resources, although there are concerns that reorganisation decision-making structures disrupted traditional patterns. This study aimed explore needs this new climate.Semi-structured interviews Public Health Practitioners across three Authorities were conducted, sites purposefully selected represent urban, suburban county Authorities, reflect range issues might be encountered. A topic developed allowed participants on their experience involvement providing for, or making decision around, commissioning service. Data transcribed template analysis employed understand findings, which developing coding based an initial transcript applying subsequent transcripts.Increased political decision-making, while welcomed by some as form democratising health, influenced preferences number ways. Political individual ideologies locally elected officials meant certain forms overlooked favour corresponded decision-makers' preferences. at level increased appetite knowledge evidence. Research demonstrate its salience if it is contribute alongside competing sources, particularly anecdotal information.To better meet politicians practitioners, shift scope required. At systematic review level, involve moving away from producing reflects broad global generalisations about narrow simple questions, instead towards have applicability can support policy-focussed decisions.