Embedding research in health policy and systems in the Americas

Abstract

As countries develop and improve universal health coverage schemes globally, there is increasing recognition that health policymaking and health system strengthening need to be informed by robust research evidence (1, 2). In Latin America and the Caribbean, emerging and complex health challenges require actionable and context-sensitive evidence to improve the responsiveness of health systems (3). This movement towards evidence-informed policymaking also calls for research that addresses key priorities identified by policymakers and stakeholders in the Region [...] Since 2014, the Alliance, in collaboration with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), has implemented an embedded research initiative to support health policies and programs in Latin America and the Caribbean. The initiative, entitled “Improving Program Implementation through Embedded Research (iPIER),” aims to support the development of and demand for problem-focused and action-oriented research. The Alliance contributes its embedded research experience and PAHO brings its expertise with supporting research in the Region of the Americas to advocate for this innovative way of developing and using science [...] This special series of the Pan American Journal of Public Health presents the rationale that underpins the embedded research initiative, and the findings of 10 of these projects, conducted within various health system settings in Latin America and the Caribbean. The supplement provides critical knowledge emanating from research prioritized by decision-makers, in addition to documenting the embedded research process and outcomes. Findings and reflections put forth in this series also contribute to bridging the knowledge gap on the engagement process between policymakers and researchers, particularly in LMIC settings. In addition, the learnings provide greater evidence on the pathways through which research is linked to priority health systems and services in the Americas.