 | The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA |
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| The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA |
Liz Nugent, MIA, Partners for Health Reformplus, University Research Co., LLC, 4800 Montgomery Lane, Suite 600, Bethesda, MD 20814, 301 718-3196, liz_nugent@abtassoc.com and Lena Kolyada, MS, Abt Associates Inc., Partners for Health Reformplus, 4800 Montgomery Lane, Ste 600, Bethesda, MD 20814.
Improving access to reliable and relevant information is perhaps the most cost-effective way to enhance health care delivery in resource poor countries. However, it is essential to ask if the provision of information is a sufficient outcome in itself or if information provided is indeed changing behavior to inform improved policies. While free access to research information from the north is often of incalculable benefit for local researchers, the Partners for Health Reformplus Resource Center sought to verify that information disseminated was indeed meeting local needs and informing decision-making. In-depth interviews were used as the main data collection technique. Participants were chosen amongst respondents to a 2002 information needs survey mailed to some 5,000 individuals worldwide. Results indicate that research information is considered essential to the process of decision-making at all levels. Frequent users of information are more likely to act as active agents of change. Information needs are not static. While the Internet is valued as an important source of information, barriers to utilization remain high in resource poor settings. Efforts must be made to deliver information in a format and language appropriate for a particular audience. It is essential to prioritize stakeholders and build relationships with them to further maximize dissemination efforts. Frequent contact with target audiences is critical to assess information needs and tailor information produced and disseminated to changing demands.
Learning Objectives:
Keywords: Communication, Health Reform
Related Web page: phrproject.com
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.